The Argentine Army will begin receiving its first modernized 2CA2 medium tanks in September, with a dozen to be delivered by year’s end. The program is expected to be worth $30 million and involve the modernization of 74 of Argentina’s existing 200-plus medium tanks by 2027. Argentina launched the tank upgrade project in 2010 under a cooperation agreement with Israel. Work started in late 2023 at Arsenal Battalion 602’s facilities in Boulogne-Sur-Mer.
Argentine President Javier Milei confirmed the tank upgrades, signaling a shift in rebuilding the capabilities of Argentina’s armed forces. The upgrades will enhance the tanks’ detection, targeting, engagement, and destructive capabilities. Elbit Systems is providing a new fire control system, while local subcontractor IMPSA is refurbishing the turrets and integrating the new fire control and subsystems.
The tank’s main weapon, a Rheinmetall-made RH-105-30 105mm gun, will remain unchanged. Protection improvements are currently on hold, but there are plans to use add-on applique armor proposed by Israeli company IMI. The goal is to modernize up to 50 more medium tanks, in addition to the 74 already earmarked in the current program.
