Description

The C1 Ariete is the main battle tank of the Italian Army. The chassis and engine were produced by Iveco, while the turret and fire-control system were supplied by Oto Melara. The vehicle carries the latest optical, digital-imaging, and fire-control systems, enabling it to fight day and night and to engage targets on the move with its 120mm Rheinmetall main gun. During its service in Iraq the C-1 MBT was armed with two additional MG 42/59 7.62mm machine guns with protective shields. In addition, it was fitted with an add-on armor package weighing approximately  two ton. The additional armor was mounted to the hull sides as well as to the sides and the front of the turret to withstand RPG-7 tandem hollow-charge warheads used in Iraq.