The Modern Day Tank: A Closer Look at the Ariete's Weaknesses

The Italian Army's Ariete main battle tank has been criticized for its limitations in survivability and fire control systems. While it is a significant improvement over earlier models, there are still some areas where it falls short. One of the primary concerns is its ability to withstand damage on the battlefield.

Ariete's survivability issues are largely attributed to its limited armor protection, which makes it vulnerable to modern anti-tank weapons. Additionally, its fire control systems are not as advanced as those found in other modern main battle tanks. This lack of sophistication can lead to inaccurate shots and a reduced ability to engage targets effectively.

Another significant weakness is the Ariete's commander's reliance on the gunner for thermal sighting. This limitation makes it difficult for the commander to accurately identify and engage targets, especially at night or in conditions with poor visibility.

It's challenging to assess the performance of any tank without direct comparisons in equal battle conditions. However, when considering the Ariete's specifications, it becomes clear that it has some significant limitations compared to other modern main battle tanks.

For instance, its engine can only propel it up to a speed of over 40 mph (65 km/h), which is significantly slower than the Leopard 2, Challenger 2, and Abrams. These vehicles are capable of reaching speeds exceeding 70 tons depending on the variant and add-ons fitted.

Furthermore, the Ariete's relatively light weight of just 60 tons makes it more susceptible to damage from modern anti-tank weapons. The lack of advanced fire control systems and thermal sighting capabilities for the commander also hinder its effectiveness in combat.

In conclusion, while the Ariete is a significant improvement over earlier models, its weaknesses are evident when compared to other modern main battle tanks. Its limitations in survivability, fire control systems, and commander's thermal sighting capabilities make it vulnerable on the battlefield.

Modern day tank