MODERNIZATION OF M60 TANKS CONCLUDED
KAYSERI (A.A) - 07.04.2010 - Last of the 170 M60 tanks modernized by an
Israeli company was delivered in a ceremony in Central Anatolian
province of Kayseri on Wednesday.
Turkish Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul and representatives of Israeli Defense Ministry and Israeli Ministry Industries (IMI) company attended the delivery ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Gonul said Turkish Armed Forces should have strong and deterrent abilities to continue to contribute peace and stability in its region, "important steps have been made to boost defense industry with the national projects initiated one after the other."
Within the scope of the modernization project, 170 M60 A1 tanks have been modernized into M60 T tanks. A contract worth 687.5 million USD for the modernization of 170 M60 tanks had awarded to Israel Military Industries (IMI) on March 29, 2002.
Power capacity and suspension system of the tanks were improved and thus their movement capability developed. With thermal sight systems, opportunities ensured for ground attack under night conditions.
Mechanical and Chemical Industrial Corporation (MKE) of Turkey participated in modernization of tanks and ASELSAN of Turkey took part in improvement of electronic systems.
Israeli Defense Ministry Director General Ehud Shani said this was the best tank of its kind.
