The Argentine Ministry of Defense, led by Minister Jorge Taiana and Chief of Staff Agustín Rossi, alongside other key officials, oversaw the successful operational technical evaluation and unveiled the second prototype of the TAM 2CA2 model. The event took place at the Arsenals Directorate (602 Arsenals Battalion) in Boulogne Sur Mer, Buenos Aires. The officials witnessed real-time simulations of six targets and verified the incorporation of various elements during the modernization process. Lieutenant General Guillermo Olegario Pereda, Chief of the Army, emphasized the significance of presenting the new TAM 2CA2 A2 prototype. This development aligns with the ongoing re-equipment and modernization efforts within the military. Genuine investments in projects aimed at enhancing operational capacity have enabled tangible progress in strengthening the military instrument.
The Modernization Project of the Argentine Medium Tank (TAM) to the TAM 2CA2 version incorporates cutting-edge systems that enable all-time combat and enhance shot precision through an advanced digitized fire control system. Additionally, the replacement of the original hydraulic movement system with an electric one allows for faster tower movement, among other improvements. This technological leap ensures that the TAM 2CA2 A2 possesses operational capabilities demanded by modern conflicts, utilizing the same technology found in the most advanced tanks worldwide. It is worth noting that 70% of the components, spare parts, and supplies for the maintenance of these units are of national origin. For instance, the IMPSA company modernized the towers, which were later welded by Military Fabrications.
Following the prototype presentation, the officials visited the tank production and component integration line, where they witnessed the necessary tasks and adjustments required for the installed systems. Once the aforementioned process is complete, the modernized units will undergo certification. Each tank will undergo evaluation, including dynamic tests on the tank track at the Directorate of Arsenals and firing certification at the Magdalena mobile target range. These assessments aim to ensure compliance with the operational requirements set by the Argentine Army. Additionally, representatives from the Directorate for International Defense Cooperation of the Israeli Ministry of Defense (SIBAT) and authorities from the Israeli defense company Elbit Systems were in attendance.
The Tanque Argentino Mediano (TAM; Argentine Medium Tank) is a medium tank in service with the Argentine Army. The vehicle was developed by a German and Argentine team of engineers, and was based on the German Marder infantry fighting vehicle chassis. The TAM 2CA2 is a further prototype of the TAM 2C unveiled in May 2023, currently undergoing testing by the Argentine Army. It integrates upgraded electronics and optics to the ones present on the 2C. The gunner’s sight has been replaced by a system similar to the COAPS (Commander Open Architecture Panoramic Sight) from Elbit Systems, featuring day and night sights, greater ease for long-distance target acquisition, improved sensors and thermal sights, amongst others. 74 TAM and TAM 2C vehicles are expected to be upgraded to the TAM 2CA2 within a period of 7 years (to 2030).
