Exclusive: Italy enhances armored capability with delivery of new upgraded Ariete C2 tank to Italian Army.

According to information published by Ciro Nappi via his X account on July 18, 2025, the Italian Army has officially taken delivery of the first C2 Ariete Main Battle Tank (MBT) during a ceremony held at the Cecchignola headquarters in Rome. This event marks a pivotal moment for Italy's land forces and its defense industry, signaling the nation's return to the field of main battle tank production and modernization after decades of limited activity in this sector. The delivery is the initial step in a broader strategic program aimed at enhancing the Italian Army's armored warfare capabilities.
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The modernized Ariete C2 main battle tank offers the Italian Army enhanced firepower mobility and protection with a new 1,500 hp engine upgraded armor advanced fire control systems and full digital battlefield integration. (Picture source: X Account Ciro Nappi)

Today, the Italian Army operates a fleet of approximately 150 main battle tanks, including C1 Ariete units. Of these, 90 are confirmed to be undergoing conversion to the upgraded C2 standard under the current contract, with an additional 35 tanks held as an option for future modernization. The upgrade program is managed by CIO (Consorzio Iveco–OTO Melara), a joint venture between Iveco Defence Vehicles and Leonardo. If the full program is executed, the Italian Army will field up to 125 Ariete C2s. This modernization is expected to keep the platform operationally relevant through at least 2040, ensuring that Italy maintains a credible heavy armored capability during the transitional period toward a next-generation European MBT.

The original Ariete MBT, developed in the 1980s and introduced into service in the late 1990s, was Italy’s first indigenous main battle tank since the Cold War. Designed and built by the CIO consortium, the Ariete was tailored to meet the specific operational needs of the Italian Army. It featured a 120mm smoothbore gun, a fire control system developed with digital components ahead of its time, and modular armor protection. With a combat weight of 54 tons and powered by a 1,270 hp diesel engine, the Ariete offered balanced mobility, firepower, and protection suitable for NATO operations and national defense.

However, over time, limitations in armor protection, engine performance, and electronics became apparent when compared to evolving threats and next-generation MBTs such as the Leopard 2A7 or Leclerc XLR. Additionally, the aging fleet saw increasing maintenance challenges and obsolescence in its onboard systems. This led to the inception of the Ariete C2 upgrade program, intended to extend the tank’s operational life and align it with contemporary battlefield requirements.

The Ariete C2 brings a suite of modern enhancements that transform the tank into a significantly more capable platform. The most notable change is the adoption of a new 1,500 hp powerpack based on the V12 MTCA engine developed by Iveco, coupled with a modern transmission that provides improved torque and mobility across various terrains. The tank also receives a comprehensive armor upgrade, including add-on passive and reactive protection kits designed to counter both kinetic and chemical energy threats, and provisions for active protection systems in the future.

Fire control and targeting have been significantly modernized, featuring a fully digital fire control suite with day/night independent thermal sights for both the gunner and commander. The system integrates seamlessly with modern C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence) networks, offering enhanced situational awareness and target engagement in networked combat environments. New-generation optronics, developed by Leonardo, further increase detection and engagement ranges under all-weather conditions.

Internally, crew ergonomics have been improved, with a redesigned driver's station and better internal layout to support longer missions. The tank also receives new electrical systems, enhanced power distribution units, and modern battlefield management system (BMS) capabilities that allow real-time data sharing with other armored units, UAVs, and command centers.

The delivery of the Ariete C2 not only revitalizes Italy’s armored forces but also reestablishes its industrial footprint in the MBT sector. It is a strategic leap that supports NATO readiness and strengthens national defense autonomy. The C2 project stands as a platform for potential collaboration with other European partners considering similar upgrades or seeking new-generation MBT solutions before the arrival of the Franco-German MGCS in the 2030s. Army Recognition will continue to deliver exclusive coverage on the operational deployment and future evolution of the Ariete C2 as it enters service.