The Turkish Ministry of Defense aims to modernize the M60A3 main battle tanks that are in the inventory of the Turkish army. In this context, Roketsan developed a very special turret system for the M60A3 tanks, a reliable source reports. 

Improved 105mm MZK turret features Explosive Reactive Armor [ERA] modules. The MZK also has a driver visualization system, an auxiliary power unit, fog mortars, laser warning receivers, a remote-controlled weapon system, and automatic loading. The new turret, which is much more advanced than the current 14.5-ton turrets on the M60A3 tanks, weighs 13 tons.

Previously, Roketsan used its own ERA and Spacer Modular Add-on armor solutions during the modernization of the Leopard 2A4 and M60T tanks. With the experience gained from these modernization projects, Roketsan presents a much more advanced solution for the M60A3 tanks.

It is known that there are more than 600 M60A3 main battle tanks in the inventory of the Turkish armed forces. Within the program, the modernization aims to bring the capabilities of the M60A3 tank closer to those of the M60TM tank.

On the other hand, the Leopard 2A4 tanks, which are described as the modern tanks of the Turkish ground forces, are also undergoing complete modernization. According to Turkish sources, the contract for the modernization of Leopard 2 is currently being signed.

According to the contract, the Turkish Leopards will undergo a complete replacement of armor and electronics. As an armor solution, the T1 Armor System developed by Roketsan and integrated into 40 Leopard 2A4 tanks will be used.

As a result of the modernization activities, the Leopard 2A4 tanks will acquire a structure similar to the Leopard 2A4NG. Earlier, Turkish sources claimed that the turret developed for the Altai would be integrated into the Leopards. According to the latest information, again from Turkish media, this integration will not happen.

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• Turkiye
• Roketsan