TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A prototype M60A3 Patton tank is undergoing upgrades to its fire control and targeting systems at the Army Armaments Bureau’s maintenance center in Nantou.
A series of tests is scheduled to begin after the Lunar New Year, Liberty Times reported. The Army transferred one Patton tank to NCSIST for the upgrades.
The project is being carried out by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology in cooperation with Leonardo DRS, a subsidiary of the US-based defense contractor Leonardo.
The project incorporates a digital Hunter-Killer system, significantly improving the pointing accuracy and stabilization of the tank’s main 105mm gun. It also provides third-generation thermal-imaging and night-vision capabilities.
NCSIST signed an MOU with Leonardo DRS last year to begin the upgrades. Leonardo DRS has dispatched technical personnel to be stationed on-site to participate throughout the entire upgrade process, per Liberty Times.
Military and government officials said that several nations operating M60A3 tanks have shown strong interest in NCSIST’s fire control system upgrade project. Through foreign defense contractors, they have conveyed their willingness to pursue further discussions about undergoing the same upgrades, the officials said.
If the project receives export approval from the defense ministry, it would mark Taiwan’s first officially sanctioned arms export through formal government channels in 25 years, Liberty Times said.
