Ariete AMV
Ammodernamento di Mezza Vita (Mid-Life Upgrade) of Italy's C1 Ariete main battle tank, addressing critical capability gaps while extending the platform's service life until the MGCS replacement arrives. The AMV programme upgrades the 120mm/44 Oto Melara gun with new ammunition (including DM53/63 APFSDS), installs a completely new Leonardo HITFIST fire control system with third-generation thermal imaging for both commander and gunner, adds a commander's independent panoramic sight for hunter-killer capability, upgrades the powerpack to 1,500 hp, and integrates new modular add-on composite armour with provisions for active protection system integration. Additional upgrades include digital communications, battle management system, and improved NBC protection. Approximately 125 Ariete tanks will be upgraded to AMV standard.
![Leonardo (formerly Finmeccanica) logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="18" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">LEONARDO</text></svg>)
- Significant fire control and optics upgrade over original Ariete
- NATO-standard 120mm ammunition compatibility
- Modernized C4I and digital systems improve networked capability
- Cost-effective life extension vs. full replacement
- Original 1990s hull and turret design limits fundamental improvement
- 120/44 gun shorter than modern L/55; reduced penetration at range
- 1,300 hp engine underpowered for 54-tonne weight
- Only ~125 tanks in Italian Army; very small fleet for a major NATO nation
- No active protection system (APS) integration announced
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