Chile is collaborating with Turkey’s defense firm, Aselsan, to significantly upgrade its Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks. This initiative, formalised by Chile’s Estrategias del Ejército (Famae), aims to boost the tanks’ combat effectiveness by integrating advanced electronic systems and fire control capabilities.
Leopard 2A4 tanks Modernisation Efforts
The modernisation initiative encompasses the installation of state-of-the-art thermal and electro-optical commanders and gunners. A key component of the modernisation efforts is the integration of Aselsan’s VOLKAN fire control system, which is designed to enhance targeting precision and operational coordination.
Strategic Partnership and Technology Transfer
At Exponaval 2024, Aras Balli of Aselsan stressed the strategic value of this new partnership with Chile. He said the agreement goes beyond a standard deal, enabling vital technology transfers that boost Chile’s defence and regional security. The collaboration centres on assembling and maintaining advanced systems locally to reduce dependence on external support. It also includes full crew training programmes to build local expertise. This initiative will create a skilled workforce capable of diagnostics, repairs, and long-term maintenance.
Integration of the AKKOR Active Protection System
A notable aspect of the upgrade is the incorporation of Aselsan’s AKKOR Active Protection System (APS). Originally developed for the Turkish Altay tank, AKKOR provides robust defense against anti-tank guided missiles and rocket threats, significantly enhancing battlefield survivability. The system employs both hard-kill and soft-kill countermeasures, offering comprehensive protection against a wide array of threats.
AKKOR’s Advanced Defensive Capabilities
AKKOR operates by utilising high-resolution radars to detect incoming threats and guiding hard-kill missiles to intercept and neutralise them mid-air. This mechanism ensures 360-degree protection, allowing the system to counter threats from any direction. Additionally, the soft-kill part uses electronic warfare to create smoke screens that hide the vehicle from laser-guided missiles and thermal vision systems, making it harder for enemies to aim at it.
Leopard 2A4 Tanks: Modular Integration and Future Adaptations
The modular design of AKKOR facilitates its integration across various armour types, including Leopard 2A4 tanks. This adaptability not only supports current upgrades but also allows for future enhancements and maintenance. The system’s software interface integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s battle management system, providing enhanced situational awareness to the crew and ensuring rapid response to emerging threats.
Chile’s Acquisition of Leopard 2A4 Tanks
In the early 2000s, Chile purchased approximately 140 Leopard 2A4 tanks from Germany, aiming to modernise its armoured tanks, which represent mid-1980s standards and are among the most formidable in South America. The current upgrade project seeks to address technological and logistical obsolescence issues, ensuring the tanks remain effective in contemporary combat scenarios.
Aselsan’s Global Expertise in Tank Modernisation
Aselsan has established itself as a significant player in the global market for modernising main battle tanks. The company’s experience includes upgrading various tank models, such as the M60 and the Leopard series, for the Turkish Armed Forces. Internationally, Aselsen has been involved in projects like the modernisation of T-72 tanks in Kazakhstan and providing advanced technological solutions to other countries seeking to enhance their armour.
Conclusion
The partnership between Chile’s Famae and Turkey’s Aselsan represents a strategic move to modernise Chile’s Leopard 2A4 tanks, significantly enhancing their combat readiness and operational effectiveness. Through advanced system integration, technology transfer, and localised maintenance, this collaboration ensures that Chile’s armoured forces are well-prepared to meet contemporary and future defense challenges.
