Aselsan Delivers Advanced M60T Tanks to Turkish Land Forces

Defense News ,Turkey :- On February 10, the foremost Turkish defense company, Aselsan, marked a significant milestone by delivering the first two modernized M60T main battle tanks to the Turkish Land Forces. This delivery is a pivotal step in a comprehensive initiative aimed at augmenting the operational effectiveness and survivability of these tanks in contemporary combat scenarios.

The upgraded M60T tanks, now equipped with cutting-edge technology, have undergone a transformation described by Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, President of the Turkish Defence Industry Agency, as turning them into "large walking computers." These enhancements involve the integration of advanced sensors and systems designed to heighten the tanks' battlefield awareness and accuracy in engagement.

General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, Commander of the Turkish Land Forces, underscored the tank's crucial role in land operations, citing its firepower, speed, and armor. He commended the modernization efforts for enabling earlier enemy detection, precise engagement, and long-distance striking, thereby significantly boosting the combat power of the forces.

Ahmet Akyol, President & CEO of ASELSAN, emphasized the company's global ambition and expertise in tank modernization, citing successful projects like the Leopard tanks for the Chilean army and the T-72 tanks. The company's in-house production capabilities for all tank systems have been demonstrated through various projects, including the Turkish Main Battle Tank Project (ALTAY).

The M60T modernization, part of the FIRAT-M60T Project, centers on enhancing the tanks' firepower, protection, and communication systems. Notable upgrades include the localization of the Fire Control System, reducing reliance on external sources for critical electronic systems.

The VOLKAN-M Fire Control System addition and enhanced communication systems stand out among the many improvements aimed at fortifying the tanks' defensive capabilities. This forward-looking modernization effort positions the Turkish Land Forces at the forefront of technological advancements in armored warfare.