Difference between revisions of "TAM 2C"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Raining Fire"]].
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Raining Fire"]]. It is a modernization of the [[TAM]] (Tanque Argentino Mediano) together with the Israeli company "Eibit Systems".
 +
 
 +
In 2011, the General Directorate of Research and Development (DIGID) of the Argentine Army began modernizing the facilities of the Arsenals Battalion 602, in the town of Boulogne.
 +
 
 +
The main points to consider were the increase in the chances of survival and the capacity to respond to threats, as well as the possibility of fighting both during the day and at night.
 +
 
 +
It also sought to improve the level of protection of the crew; optimize the accuracy of static and moving shooting; prioritize the digitization of the control and firing systems, and eliminate the old hydraulic systems for moving the tower.
 +
 
 +
The team in charge of modernizing the TAM 2C is made up of military engineering officers and staff, non-commissioned officers from various specialties and cavalry, and trained civilian personnel.
 +
 
 +
The TAM 2C has new systems such as new electronic system of movement of the turret. A digital firing control and execution system, including the barrel's thermal sleeve. New thermal vision systems for the tank commander, aimer and driver. A laser threat alert system. Automatic target tracking. New Fire Suppression System. Installation of auxiliary power unit (APU) and a new communications system.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 157: Line 167:
  
 
=== Production ===
 
=== Production ===
The first TAM 2C prototype was unveiled in 2013, having been upgraded by Elbit systems. After technical evaluations, the vehicle was accepted for service, and the Argentine government signed a contract with Elbit for the modernization of 74 TAM vehicles. In total, the modernization of these vehicles will cost $110 million dollars. While expensive, this is tiny compared to the cost of acquiring a completely new MBT. The first TAM was reportedly upgraded to 2C standard in 2017, with initial production starting in 2018.
+
The TAM 2C project was born in response to the Force's need to find a solution for the age and technological delay of the material. The purpose of the project is to extend the useful life of the tanks and increase their capacities.
 +
 
 +
To this end, in 2010 an understanding agreement was signed between the Ministries of Defense of our country and the State of Israel, aimed at industrial and technological cooperation in defense.
 +
 
 +
In that agreement, which was the basis of the subsequent agreement for the modernization of the TAM to its TAM 2C version, the development and evaluation of a prototype was agreed to then continue with the serial production of TAM combat vehicles with Army personnel.
 +
 
 +
The first TAM 2C prototype was unveiled in 2013, having been updated by the Israeli company "Elbit Systems". In 2014, after technical evaluations, the vehicle completed the prototype phase and was accepted for service, and the Argentine government signed a contract with Elbit for the modernization of 74 TAM vehicles. In total, the modernization of these vehicles will cost $110 million dollars. While expensive, this is tiny compared to the cost of acquiring a completely new MBT. The first TAM was reportedly upgraded to 2C standard in 2017, with initial production starting in 2018.
 +
 
 +
Some of the systems that the TAM 2C incorporates are:
 +
 
 +
A new electronic system of movement of the turret. A digital firing control and execution system, including the barrel's thermal sleeve. New thermal vision systems for the tank commander, aimer and driver. A laser threat alert system. Automatic target tracking. New Fire Suppression System. Installation of auxiliary power unit (APU) and a new communications system.
 +
 
 +
Currently (August 2023) there is a modernization project from TAM 2C to TAM 2C-A2
 +
[[File:TAM 2C A2.jpeg|thumb|440x440px|Prototype of the TAM 2C-A2 - [https://www.argentina.gob.ar/noticias/modernizacion-del-tam-2ca2-comprobacion-de-resultados-de-la-evolucion-tecnica-operacional-y Source]]]
 +
The Modernization Project of the Argentine Medium Tank (TAM) to its TAM 2C-A2 version, incorporates state-of-the-art systems that enable All Time combat (AT), greater precision in shots, due to the incorporation of an advanced control system of digitized shooting, as well as the achievement of a greater movement speed of the tower, thanks to the replacement of the original hydraulic movement system with an electric one, among other improvements such as:
 +
 
 +
• Incorporation of the Elbit Laser Alert System (E-LAWS), which replaced the TDS (Threat Detection System)
 +
 
 +
The E-LAWS also offers 360° coverage of the TDS, being able to accurately detect, classify and locate laser sources such as rangefinders, anti-tank guided missiles, target designators and infrared illuminators. It has the option to integrate into active and passive countermeasure systems.
 +
[[File:TAM-2C-A2-mod-3.jpeg|thumb|441x441px|On the left, the COAPS-L panoramic sight for the gunner - TAM 2C-A2 prototype - [https://www.zona-militar.com/2023/05/31/ejercito-argentino-algunos-detalles-del-prototipo-tam-2c-a2/ Source]]]
 +
• Incorporation of COAPS-L stabilized panoramic sight for the gunner
 +
 
 +
It incorporates advanced sensors and image processing capabilities into a unique complementary system coupled with artificial intelligence and machine-learning that enables it to detect and classify threats. According to Elbit, this modular solution is designed to provide long-range day and night target acquisition in stationary or moving operations. Its open architecture allows integration with command and control systems.
 +
 
 +
The COAPS-l sight's advanced sensors include a 3-5 μm thermal channel, a day channel with HD color camera, an eye-safe laser rangefinder, and an integrated video tracker. The range of scopes for detection, identification and recognition goes from 4,500 to 25,000 meters
 +
 
 +
• Incorporation of the COAPS-L system for the commander
 +
 
 +
Keeping the same line, the TAM 2C-A2 was provided with the COAPS-L system, similar to the set arranged for the gunner but with the difference of being mounted on a gyro-stabilized turret with 360° panoramic view. In this way, the optronic systems were homogenized, which could be translated into a reduction of the logistical load as well as in some aspects concerning the training of the crews.
 +
[[File:TAM-2C-A2-mod-4.jpeg|thumb|373x373px|APU from the TAM 2C-A2 Prototype (May 2023) - [https://www.zona-militar.com/2023/05/31/ejercito-argentino-algunos-detalles-del-prototipo-tam-2c-a2/#:~:text=La-,UPA,-provista%20en%20el Source] ]]
 +
• New Auxiliary Power Unit (APU)
 +
 
 +
Conceived to meet the requirement of having a silent combat surveillance system, the TAM 2C incorporated an Auxiliary Power Unit so that the armored vehicle has a power supply system without having to start the engine.
 +
 
 +
The auxiliary power unit allows having the necessary power for the operation of the tower, supplying the energy required to operate with all the systems on. Thanks to this modification, the TAM 2C does not need to keep its engine running, which implies a reduction in consumption, as well as reducing the sound and thermal signature of the armored car.
 +
 
 +
The APU provided in the TAM 2C has a minimal thermal and sound signature, in addition to having an autonomy that exceeds six hours. The benefits of adding the auxiliary unit will also spill over into other aspects, such as less wear on the MTU engine, particularly when the vehicle is used for crew instruction and training.
 +
 
 +
The TAM 2C-A2 project aims to modernize 74 TAM's within a period of 7 years, as timely communicated by the Cabinet Office in one of its reports to the 2021 congress. To have a basic idea of the schedule, IMPSA It must deliver 12 intervened towers in 2026, so the project may be extended until 2027 if everything goes without major incidents.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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;Videos
 
;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|PJLUJNFD1Nw|'''The Shooting Range #224''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:28 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|lpzy1Xw6e1g|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Tank Review''' - ''Napalmratte''|o9QmPp1ZaoM|'''Should You Grind The {{PAGENAME}}?''' - ''Sako Sniper''|q_BQExWq6ZI|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Hard Hitting Lightweight Ft. DM63''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''}}
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{{Youtube-gallery|PJLUJNFD1Nw|'''The Shooting Range #224''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:28 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|lpzy1Xw6e1g|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Tank Review''' - ''Napalmratte''|o9QmPp1ZaoM|'''Should You Grind The {{PAGENAME}}?''' - ''Sako Sniper''|q_BQExWq6ZI|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Hard Hitting Lightweight Ft. DM63''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''|MzJyKGjyp9o
 +
|"The TAM Gets an UPGRADE! - {{PAGENAME}} - War Thunder" - "JustinPlaysYT"}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 188: Line 237:
 
* Army Recognition. (2017, July 04). TAM 2C main battle tank technical data pictures 80407176. Retrieved January 02, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.armyrecognition.com/argentina_army_tanks_heavy_armoured_vehicles_uk/tam_2c_main_battle_tank_technical_data_pictures_80407176.html</nowiki>
 
* Army Recognition. (2017, July 04). TAM 2C main battle tank technical data pictures 80407176. Retrieved January 02, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.armyrecognition.com/argentina_army_tanks_heavy_armoured_vehicles_uk/tam_2c_main_battle_tank_technical_data_pictures_80407176.html</nowiki>
 
* Lucian, S., <nowiki>&</nowiki>amp; Muñozsays, J. (2018, February 14). TAM 2C Main Battle Tank. Retrieved January 02, 2021, from <nowiki>https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/argentina/tam-2c-main-battle-tank</nowiki>
 
* Lucian, S., <nowiki>&</nowiki>amp; Muñozsays, J. (2018, February 14). TAM 2C Main Battle Tank. Retrieved January 02, 2021, from <nowiki>https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/argentina/tam-2c-main-battle-tank</nowiki>
 +
* [https://www.zona-militar.com/2023/05/31/ejercito-argentino-algunos-detalles-del-prototipo-tam-2c-a2/ Zona Militar. (2023, May 23). Argentine Army: Some details of the TAM 2C-A2 prototype]
 +
* [https://www.argentina.gob.ar/noticias/modernizacion-del-tam-2ca2-comprobacion-de-resultados-de-la-evolucion-tecnica-operacional-y Argentine Government. (2023, July 12). Modernization of the TAM 2C-A2: Verification of the results of the operational technical Evolution and presentation of serial production]
  
 
{{TankManufacturer Thyssen-Henschel}}
 
{{TankManufacturer Thyssen-Henschel}}
 
{{Germany light tanks}}
 
{{Germany light tanks}}

Revision as of 18:23, 11 August 2023

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the German light tank TAM 2C. For other versions, see TAM (Family).
germ_thyssen_henschel_tam_2c.png
GarageImage TAM 2C.jpg
ArtImage TAM 2C.png
TAM 2C
AB RB SB
9.7 10.0 10.0
Class:
Research:150 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:830 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Tanque Argentino Mediano 2C is a rank VII German light tank with a battle rating of 9.7 (AB) and 10.0 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update "Raining Fire". It is a modernization of the TAM (Tanque Argentino Mediano) together with the Israeli company "Eibit Systems".

In 2011, the General Directorate of Research and Development (DIGID) of the Argentine Army began modernizing the facilities of the Arsenals Battalion 602, in the town of Boulogne.

The main points to consider were the increase in the chances of survival and the capacity to respond to threats, as well as the possibility of fighting both during the day and at night.

It also sought to improve the level of protection of the crew; optimize the accuracy of static and moving shooting; prioritize the digitization of the control and firing systems, and eliminate the old hydraulic systems for moving the tower.

The team in charge of modernizing the TAM 2C is made up of military engineering officers and staff, non-commissioned officers from various specialties and cavalry, and trained civilian personnel.

The TAM 2C has new systems such as new electronic system of movement of the turret. A digital firing control and execution system, including the barrel's thermal sleeve. New thermal vision systems for the tank commander, aimer and driver. A laser threat alert system. Automatic target tracking. New Fire Suppression System. Installation of auxiliary power unit (APU) and a new communications system.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
LWS
Notifies about the vehicle's exposure to laser emissions
Armourfront / side / back
Hull32 / 15 / 11
Turret30 / 25 / 15
Crew4 people
Visibility84 %

The armour is composed of welded steel, providing protection up to 32 mm.

The front can defend against 12.7 mm machine gun ammo, but the side armour is only proof against standard machine guns of 7.62 mm. However, most enemies that can be faced will usually have a 12.7 mm machine gun or larger in their possession, making it so even a burst of bullets could riddle the TAM with holes. With this in mind, take caution when flanking a tank with a disabled gun to get a side shot, as you can easily lose a few crew members to machine gunfire. This becomes less of an issue after unlocking the APFSDS round when side shots are rarely as necessary.

The TAM is vulnerable to overpressure, and so HE rounds that hit have a chance of instantly destroying the vehicle.

Armour Type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
  • Cast homogeneous armour - Gunner's Optics Port (Turret Roof)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 11-32 mm (77°) Upper Glacis
32 mm (29-60°) Lower Glacis
15 mm 11 mm 5-32 mm
Turret 30-50 mm (6-35°) Turret front
30 mm + 30 mm (51-63°) Mantlet Front
25 mm (7-10°) Mantlet Sides
25 mm Crew Compartment
15 mm Bustle
15 mm 11-30 mm
Cupola 35 mm 11 mm

Notes:

  • Tracks and Suspension - 20 mm
  • Fenders and side skirts- 4 mm
  • There is a 25 mm ring around the gun where it meets the mantlet.
  • The mantlet covers most of the turret front

Mobility

Reverse gearbox
Forward and backward movement is possible at the same maximum speed
Speedforward / back
AB84 / 84 km/h
RB and SB76 / 76 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
7 back
Weight30.5 t
Engine power
AB1 374 hp
RB and SB720 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB45.0 hp/t
RB and SB23.6 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 84 84 30.5 1,116 1,374 36.59 45.05
Realistic 76 76 637 720 20.89 23.61

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 552 → 5 946 Sl icon.png
RB3 415 → 5 716 Sl icon.png
SB4 581 → 7 668 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications248 800 Rp icon.png
407 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 900 Ge icon.png
Crew training240 000 Sl icon.png
Experts830 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 140 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
140 / 180 / 230 % Sl icon.png
238 / 238 / 238 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_HESH_ammo_pack
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_NATO_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods counterMeasures.png
LWS/LR
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods scout streak.png
Scout UAV
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_DM33_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition50 rounds
First-order29 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.7 → 6.7 s
Vertical guidance-7° / 18°

The main armament of the TAM 2C is FMK.4 Model 1L, is a licensed variant of the British L7A1 105 mm. It has access to the powerful DM63, with a penetration of up to 436 mm. This is enough to destroy any tank, however ones with high angled upper frontal plate (UFP) it will be a challenge but flank and shoot from the side.

105 mm FMK.4 Modelo 1L Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 50 -7°/+18° ±180° Two-plane 32.4 44.8 54.4 60.2 64.0 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 20.2 23.8 28.9 32.0 34.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead
Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
DM12 HEATFS 400 400 400 400 400 400
DM512 HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
DM33 APFSDS 408 405 398 389 379 370
DM63 APFSDS 430 427 420 409 400 390
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead
Velocity
(m/s)
Projectile
mass (kg)
Fuse delay
(m)
Fuse sensitivity
(mm)
Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg)
Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DM12 HEATFS 1,174 10.5 0.05 0.1 1.27 65° 72° 77°
DM512 HESH 732 11.2 0.1 4 4.31 73° 77° 80°
DM33 APFSDS 1,455 3.79 - - - 78° 80° 81°
DM63 APFSDS 1,455 4.4 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the TAM 2IP (identical)
Full
ammo
1st
rack empty
2nd
rack empty
3rd
rack empty
4th
rack empty
Visual
discrepancy
50 41 (+9) 30 (+20) 21 (+29) (+49) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • Racks 3 and 4 are first stage ammunition racks (29 shells total), meaning they will deplete first (in the order of 3 then 4) but will replenish from the other racks, starting with rack 1 and then rack 2.

Machine guns

Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate960 shots/min
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate960 shots/min
7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,000 (200) 600 N/A N/A
Pintle 2,000 (200) 600 -10°/+50° ±120°

Usage in battles

For the stock grind, it is recommended to get to a vantage point and use your binoculars to scout enemies, only taking easy shots. This can net quite a bit of RP if successful, the only problem is that such maps are rare. This vehicle requires much map knowledge to play, as it has poor gun handling and depression. Combined with the high repair cost, the stock grind is terrible. However, once you get DM33 you can get a bit more adventurous, but one must still exercise caution as the TAM 2C has poor survivability. Try not to ever expose much of yourself from cover. The 3rd generation thermals allow you to see enemies that few others on your team can see, as the TAM 2C is the only German ground vehicle to get 3rd gen thermals, or anything higher than 1st gen in the gun sight other than the Leopard 2 PL. It is recommended not to push corners, as the TAM has little armour, the engine is in the front (so you are immobilized at best) and the turret is mounted on the back of the tank, so you have to expose a lot of the vehicle in order to peek. The Laser Warning System (LWS) allows you to know when you are "painted" by laser rangefinders or designators, so you can duck back into cover whenever you are seen by an enemy. Finally, the DM63 APFSDS lets you to be much more risk-taking as you can now penetrate things like the Abrams's LFP, and more reliably penetrate the turret weakspots on Russian tanks like the T-80U. The machine guns, although with a lower rate of fire than the MG3 on most other German tanks of the BR, can elevate higher than the gun, so you can engage helicopters better.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Powerful DM63 APFSDS round making it competitive at its battle rating.
  • Decent mobility allowing it to flank and retreat.
  • Excellent reverse speed, as fast in reverse as it is forwards.
  • High quality thermals in gunner and commander's sights.
  • Large first stage ammo stowage allows for enough rounds for the entire match.

Cons:

  • Extremely poor armour makes it vulnerable to overpressure and heavy machine guns.
  • Mediocre gun depression, only -7°.
  • Very poor stock grind with expensive module RP costs.
  • Stock DM12 HEAT-FS is incredibly inadequate at its battle rating.

History

A TAM 2C of the Argentine army.

The TAM 2C was a modernized variant of the TAM (Tanque Argentino Mediano), the primary main battle tank (MBT) of the Argentine army. Initially designed in the 1980s, the TAM 2C originated as an upgraded variant of the original TAM, with improved weaponry, protection and equipment. The 2C variant prototype was initially unveiled in 2013, and the final production contract between the Argentine army and contractors was signed in 2015. In total, 74 TAMs will be upgraded to the 2C standard, which started in 2018.

Design and Development

In 2010, the Argentine army began the process of acquiring a new main battle tank to replace it's fleet of ageing TAM vehicles, developed in the 1980s. A number of foreign tanks were considered, including the German Leopard 2 , French Leclerc, Israeli Merkava and the Russian T-90. However, at the end, they chose to upgrade the existing TAM vehicles rather than proceeding with a new tank, due to budget restraints and the fact that most MBTs would've had trouble traversing Argentina's rough terrain. Several foreign firms bidded for the modernization, which was eventually given to Israel's Elbit Systems.

The TAM was given many upgrades, primarily to it's equipment. The vehicle received a new electrical turret drive allowing for faster turret traverse, as well as a set of NVD (thermal imager) devices for the commander and driver. The vehicle received an upgraded set of laser rangefinders, more accurate than those fitted on the original TAM. Additionally, racks were added to the rear of the vehicle for stowing crew belongings, and an APU unit was added to provide power when the engine was turned off.

In terms of armament, the TAM 2C retained the 105 mm gun fitted on the TAM. However, it received a new stabilization system that would turn off when the gun was being loaded. This made loading much easier, as the previous system would cause the gun to continuously change elevation while traversing rough terrain, which prevented the gun from being loaded properly. The TAM 2C also received a new APFSDS round with much-improved penetration, and a new HEAT-FS round.

The original armour scheme of the TAM was retained, with a maximum of 50 mm of armour on the upper glacis. Mobility also stayed the same, with no upgrades to the engine block. However, the TAM 2C lost the ability to carry the TAM's extra rear fuel tanks, as the space was occupied by the new APU unit.

Production

The TAM 2C project was born in response to the Force's need to find a solution for the age and technological delay of the material. The purpose of the project is to extend the useful life of the tanks and increase their capacities.

To this end, in 2010 an understanding agreement was signed between the Ministries of Defense of our country and the State of Israel, aimed at industrial and technological cooperation in defense.

In that agreement, which was the basis of the subsequent agreement for the modernization of the TAM to its TAM 2C version, the development and evaluation of a prototype was agreed to then continue with the serial production of TAM combat vehicles with Army personnel.

The first TAM 2C prototype was unveiled in 2013, having been updated by the Israeli company "Elbit Systems". In 2014, after technical evaluations, the vehicle completed the prototype phase and was accepted for service, and the Argentine government signed a contract with Elbit for the modernization of 74 TAM vehicles. In total, the modernization of these vehicles will cost $110 million dollars. While expensive, this is tiny compared to the cost of acquiring a completely new MBT. The first TAM was reportedly upgraded to 2C standard in 2017, with initial production starting in 2018.

Some of the systems that the TAM 2C incorporates are:

A new electronic system of movement of the turret. A digital firing control and execution system, including the barrel's thermal sleeve. New thermal vision systems for the tank commander, aimer and driver. A laser threat alert system. Automatic target tracking. New Fire Suppression System. Installation of auxiliary power unit (APU) and a new communications system.

Currently (August 2023) there is a modernization project from TAM 2C to TAM 2C-A2

Prototype of the TAM 2C-A2 - Source

The Modernization Project of the Argentine Medium Tank (TAM) to its TAM 2C-A2 version, incorporates state-of-the-art systems that enable All Time combat (AT), greater precision in shots, due to the incorporation of an advanced control system of digitized shooting, as well as the achievement of a greater movement speed of the tower, thanks to the replacement of the original hydraulic movement system with an electric one, among other improvements such as:

• Incorporation of the Elbit Laser Alert System (E-LAWS), which replaced the TDS (Threat Detection System)

The E-LAWS also offers 360° coverage of the TDS, being able to accurately detect, classify and locate laser sources such as rangefinders, anti-tank guided missiles, target designators and infrared illuminators. It has the option to integrate into active and passive countermeasure systems.

File:TAM-2C-A2-mod-3.jpeg
On the left, the COAPS-L panoramic sight for the gunner - TAM 2C-A2 prototype - Source

• Incorporation of COAPS-L stabilized panoramic sight for the gunner

It incorporates advanced sensors and image processing capabilities into a unique complementary system coupled with artificial intelligence and machine-learning that enables it to detect and classify threats. According to Elbit, this modular solution is designed to provide long-range day and night target acquisition in stationary or moving operations. Its open architecture allows integration with command and control systems.

The COAPS-l sight's advanced sensors include a 3-5 μm thermal channel, a day channel with HD color camera, an eye-safe laser rangefinder, and an integrated video tracker. The range of scopes for detection, identification and recognition goes from 4,500 to 25,000 meters

• Incorporation of the COAPS-L system for the commander

Keeping the same line, the TAM 2C-A2 was provided with the COAPS-L system, similar to the set arranged for the gunner but with the difference of being mounted on a gyro-stabilized turret with 360° panoramic view. In this way, the optronic systems were homogenized, which could be translated into a reduction of the logistical load as well as in some aspects concerning the training of the crews.

File:TAM-2C-A2-mod-4.jpeg
APU from the TAM 2C-A2 Prototype (May 2023) - Source

• New Auxiliary Power Unit (APU)

Conceived to meet the requirement of having a silent combat surveillance system, the TAM 2C incorporated an Auxiliary Power Unit so that the armored vehicle has a power supply system without having to start the engine.

The auxiliary power unit allows having the necessary power for the operation of the tower, supplying the energy required to operate with all the systems on. Thanks to this modification, the TAM 2C does not need to keep its engine running, which implies a reduction in consumption, as well as reducing the sound and thermal signature of the armored car.

The APU provided in the TAM 2C has a minimal thermal and sound signature, in addition to having an autonomy that exceeds six hours. The benefits of adding the auxiliary unit will also spill over into other aspects, such as less wear on the MTU engine, particularly when the vehicle is used for crew instruction and training.

The TAM 2C-A2 project aims to modernize 74 TAM's within a period of 7 years, as timely communicated by the Cabinet Office in one of its reports to the 2021 congress. To have a basic idea of the schedule, IMPSA It must deliver 12 intervened towers in 2026, so the project may be extended until 2027 if everything goes without major incidents.

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See also

Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links

References


Thyssen-Henschel
TAM  TAM · TAM 2C · TAM 2IP
Marder IFV  Marder A1- · Marder 1A3 · DF105
TH800  Class 3 (P)

Germany light tanks
Pz.II  Pz.II C · Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.II C TD · Pz.II F · Pz.Sfl.Ic
Sd.Kfz.234  Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 TD
Marder  Marder A1- · Marder 1A3 · Begleitpanzer 57 · DF105
  PUMA
Wheeled  Sd.Kfz.221 (s.Pz.B.41) · Class 3 (P) · Radkampfwagen 90
Other  Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS
Argentina  TAM · TAM 2C · TAM 2IP · JaPz.K A2
Czechoslovakia  Pz.35(t) · Pz.38(t) A · Pz.38(t) F · Pz.38(t) n.A. · Sd.Kfz. 140/1
France  Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK
Lithuania  Vilkas
USA  leKPz M41
USSR  SPz BMP-1