This computer is also a component of the tank's navigation system and allows for the exchange of tactical information between vehicles in a network. The tank's advanced fire-control system, manufactured by Galileo Avionica, is designated OG14元 TURMS, and includes day and night panoramic capability for the commander's SP-T-694 primary sight (developed collaboratively by SFIM/Galileo), a stabilized platform including a thermal gunner's sight and a laser rangefinder to increase accuracy and expedite target detection and targeting, and a digital fire-control computer, which is capable of measuring wind speed, humidity, and exterior weather conditions, combining them with the turret's angle of elevation, attitude, and the barrel's physical wear to increase accuracy. Secondary armament consists of a 7.62 mm MG 42/59 coaxial machine gun operated by the tank gunner or commander and an additional 7.62 mm MG 42/59 configured as an anti-aircraft weapon operated by the main-gun loader from his hatch.įire control and target acquisition

The gun barrel has a thermal insulating sleeve and a fume extractor it is fully stabilized in both azimuth and elevation by an electro-hydraulic drive system. The other 27 are stowed in a hull rack to the left of the driver's station. It carries 42 rounds, 15 ready rounds are stored vertically on the left side of the main gun breech. The gun fires most NATO-standard rounds of the same calibre. The Ariete's main armament is 120 mm smoothbore gun, designed by OTO Breda, similar to the Rheinmetall L/44. The tank has a conventional layout similar to other Western MBTs: a driver located at the front of the hull, the fighting compartment towards the middle, and the engine compartment in the rear of the hull. Final delivery occurred 7 years later in August 2002. Deliveries were first planned for 1993, and took place in 1995 due to delays. The following year the vehicles travelled a combined 16,000 km. Six prototypes were developed by 1988, which were subject to intensive testing. The vehicle carries the latest optical and digital-imaging and fire-control systems, enabling it to fight day and night and to fire on the move.

The chassis and engine were produced by Iveco, while the turret and fire-control system were supplied by OTO Melara. The C1 Ariete (English: battering ram, ram) is a 3rd generation main battle tank of the Italian Army, developed by Consorzio Iveco Oto Melara (CIO), a consortium formed by IVECO and OTO Melara.

Us army main battle tank history