Difference between revisions of "Ariete"

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{{Specs-Card|code=it_c1_ariete}}
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{{About
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| about = Italian MBT '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other uses
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| link = Ariete (Disambiguation)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=it_c1_ariete
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}_AddArmour.jpg}}
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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<!--In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.-->
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<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The C1 Ariete was developed by OTO Melara during the late Cold War to allow the Italian army to equip itself with a modern tank which could easily deal with Yugoslav and Warsaw pact tanks.
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{{break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Italian medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]].
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Introduced in [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]], this Italian MBT is one of the staple tanks that you can add to your lineup. The key differences when compared to the [[Ariete (P)|C1 Ariete Preserie]] include better armour in the form of the unlockable WAR kit, better optics which include gen 2 commander and gunner thermals and lastly better firepower which includes the DM53 APFSDS round. It's a great MBT when used by players who can work around its weaknesses, mobility is also not bad which means you will easily be able to keep up with the majority of your teammates in battle.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat?''
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{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
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<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
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The C1 Ariete is the least armoured top tier MBT currently in the game but that does not mean it has no armour to speak of. The turret front is decently protected especially with the WAR kit modification allowing it to stop all APFSDS rounds fired from guns smaller than 120 mm as well as most of the weaker 120 mm APFSDS rounds such as the 3BM22, L23A1 and DM13. The WAR kit also makes the turret invulnerable to all HEAT threats except for tandem ATGMs. The mantlet on the Ariete is not too large but it will be your weak spot from the front but that is also true for all other MBTs. The gunner and commander sit on the left side of the turret while the loader sits on the right, and the large optics block on the left side of the turret can occasionally save your gunner and commander by soaking up the post-penetration damage.
 +
 
 +
Unfortunately that's where the armour ends, the hull is one large weak spot with a huge LFP consisting of just one angled 50 mm plate that won't stop anything fired at you even from vehicles in a downtier; while the UFP is made out of spaced armour that can only stop autocannon rounds or 105 mm APDS shells. Shots through the hull will most likely take out the tank immediately, a shot on the left side of the hull front would take out the driver, gunner and commander, while a shot to the right side would hit the first stage ammo rack. Like most top tier vehicles, the tank sides offer little protection, though the fuel tanks in the side of the hull might soak up the occasional HEAT round but it isn't something you can rely on. Ultimately, it is advised to play this tank away from the front lines sniping whenever possible peaking from behind cover to maximize the use of your turret armour.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret, internal plates)
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* High-hardness rolled armour (hull UFP, turret front)
 +
* Composite armour (turret front)
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* Spaced armour (hull UFP, gun mantlet, turret sides)
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
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!'''Armour'''!!'''Front (Slope angle)'''!!'''Sides'''!!'''Rear'''!!'''Roof'''
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|-
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|Hull||{{Annotation|Spaced Armour|70 mm High hardness rolled armour + 80 mm Air + 40 mm High hardness rolled armour}} ''Upper glacis'' <br> 50 mm (50°) ''Lower glacis'' <br> 35 mm (60°) ''Sponson front''|| 10-20 mm ''Top'' <br> 35 mm ''Bottom'' || 20 mm || 35 mm ''Crew compartment'' <br> 20 mm ''Engine compartment'' <br> 5 mm ''Exhaust radiators''
 +
|-
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|Turret||{{Annotation|Composite armour|20 mm High hardness rolled armour + 80 mm Air + 20 mm High hardness rolled armour + 220 mm External composite armour with NERA elements + 100 mm Rolled homogeneous armour}} ''Turret front'' <br> {{Annotation|Spaced armour|20 mm High hardness rolled armour + 140 mm Air + 20 mm High hardness rolled armour}} + 90 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || {{Annotation|Spaced armour|20 mm Rolled homogeneous armour + 140 mm Air + 40 mm Rolled homogeneous armour}}||20 mm + 10 mm || 40 mm ''Front portion''
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20 mm ''Rear portion''
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|-
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|}
  
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''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''
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'''Internal armour:'''
 +
 
 +
* 20 mm -  Upper hull sides
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* 35 mm - Upper hull sides
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* 10 mm - Between driver and hull ammo rack
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* 8 mm - Between crew and engine compartments
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 +
{| class="wikitable"
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! '''Composite/spaced armour''' !! '''Front''' !! '''Sides'''
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|-
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| Hull || '''''Upper glacis''''' <br> 300 - 400+ mm ''Chemical'' <br> 235 - 300+ mm ''Kinetic'' || N/A
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|-
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| Turret || '''''Turret front''''' <br> 520 - 600+ mm ''Chemical'' <br> 380 - 400+ mm ''Kinetic'' <br> '''''Gun mantlet''''' <br> 210 - 530+ mm ''Chemical'' <br> 175 - 400+ mm ''Kinetic'' || '''''Turret side''''' <br> 45 - 400+ mm ''Chemical'' <br> 45 - 225+ mm ''Kinetic''
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|}
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'''Notes:'''
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*Tracks and suspension - 20 mm
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*Sideskirts - 12 mm
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*Fenders - 5 mm
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*There is a 10 mm composite screen on the turret roof
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
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''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
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{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
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<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,761|rbMinHp=1,150|AoAweight=1}}
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=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
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<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
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{{main|OTO Breda 120/44 (120 mm)}}
  
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* One 120 mm OTO/Breda 120/44 gun (42 rounds)
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
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! colspan="5" | [[OTO Breda 120/44 (120 mm)|120 mm OTO Breda 120/44]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
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|-
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! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
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! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
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! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
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|-
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! ''Arcade''
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| rowspan="2" | 42 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 6.5 || rowspan="2" | 5.75 || rowspan="2" | 5.3 || rowspan="2" | 5.00
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|-
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! ''Realistic''
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| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
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|-
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|}
  
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=== Additional armament ===
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==== Ammunition ====
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''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.''
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{{:OTO Breda 120/44 (120 mm)/Ammunition|DM12A1, DM33, DM53}}
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==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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[[File:Ammoracks_Ariete_(P).png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
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<!-- '''Last updated: 2.5.0.23''' -->
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
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! Full<br>ammo
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! 1st<br>rack empty
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! 2nd<br>rack empty
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! Visual<br>discrepancy
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|-
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| '''42''' || 16&nbsp;''(+26)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+41)'' || No
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|-
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|}
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Notes:
 +
 
 +
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
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* Rack 2 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 15 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
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* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from rack 1 into rack 2. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready rack.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
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<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
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{{main|Beretta MG42/59 (7.62 mm)}}
  
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* One coaxial 7.62 mm Beretta MG42/59 machine gun (4500 rounds)
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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* Two pintle-mount 7.62 mm Beretta MG42/59 machine guns (4000 rounds per gun)
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|-
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! colspan="5" | [[Beretta MG42/59 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm Beretta MG42/59]]
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|-
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
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|-
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| Coaxial || 4,600 (200) || 801 || N/A || N/A
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|-
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| Pintle (Commander) - R || 2,000 (200) || 801 || -8°/+60° || ±120°
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|-
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| Pintle (Loader) - L || 2,000 (200) || 801 || -8°/+60° || ±120°
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|-
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|}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
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''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
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<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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The C1 Ariete has access to a decent APFSDS round known the DM53 which can easily take care of the majority of MBT's you'll face at your battle rating. What makes this C1 Ariete unique is that it has access to a special modification known as the WAR add-on armour kit. This is one of the later modifications you can install unto the C1 Ariete which greatly improves survivability against APFSDS rounds such as some 125 mm APFSDS munitions found primarily on Russian MBT'S. The WAR kit is not as good as soaking up damage as the PSO kit when it comes to HEAT and the majority of low level IFV autocannon fire, however it still is useful and will surprisingly come in useful when you least expect it. The best playstyle for the C1 Ariete especially when you are just starting out with it, would be more a supportive one, such as flanking manoeuvres or to stick with your better armoured teammates who can withstand hits such as Leopards 2A6. The Ariete being one of the weakest top tier MBTs for its battle rating, it is advised to keep your distance and try pick enemies from far away. With the DM53 APFSDS round, you can easily take out the majority of enemies with one hit if you aim right. Most top tier MBT weak spots at the front are the lower front of the vehicle. If you manage to flank the enemy team, go for the sides or where the ammunition is stored as that also will usually get rid of an enemy quickly. When you have unlocked the WAR add-on armour kit, you have more chances to play hull down which will greatly increase your overall effectiveness on the battlefield, as you'll be able to withstand some shots coming your way. Mobility wise this is much better than the PSO, you will be able to keep up with your team and at times be even faster than some tanks such as the Challenger 2. Remember that in Arcade Battles, enemies can easily find out where you are with your name tag and where your weak spots are so try not to be out in the open when possible. The C1 Ariete also has access to commanders thermals, this will be one of the most useful items in your arsenal and will allow you to better spot enemies from behind cover, as well as quickly engage and disengage without exposing yourself long enough for the enemy to see you coming. If you can master this technique, you'll be able to still be useful despite being at a disadvantage.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
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<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
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* [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"|So far]] has strongest researchable APDSFS, capable of going through entire enemy cannon and breech as if they don't exist
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* The DM33 APFSDS round is a tier 1 modification
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* Even against well armoured tanks, capable of ruining entire enemy turret compartment while the APDSFS continues to fly out to hit the next tank behind it
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* The turret cheeks are reasonably armoured against HEATFS below 125 mm, especially with the War kit modification equipped
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* Overall good frontal armor
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* Decent mobility forwards
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* The commander has access to thermal sights, and both gunner and commander thermals are Gen 2 (higher resolution)
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* Outstanding gun handling characteristics
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* Quick and responsive reverse
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* Fairly decent and reactive mobility at medium to high speeds
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* Quick neutral steering
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* DM53, combined with great thermals and a laser rangefinder make for an exceptionally deadly sniper
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* Unlike other NATO MBTs, there is no ammo rack in the turret bustle: a penetration in the turret rarely destroys the tank in one shot
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lower front plate can be vulnerable
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* Hull armour almost non-existent
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* Placement of crew members and first stage ammo rack make hits to the hull fatal
 +
* The lack of armour is not counteracted by improved mobility, the mobility is average for a rank VII ground vehicle
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* The stock ammunition is HEATFS, the DM53 APFSDS round is a tier 4 modification
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* The War kit armour package is a tier 4 modification
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* The War kit armour package only increases chemical protection, with missiles and 125 mm HEATFS still able to penetrate
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* Transmission makes low speed manoeuvring sluggish
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* Russian tanks, protected by explosive reactive armour, can at times directly withstand DM53.
 +
 
 +
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
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The history of the C1 Ariete begins during the late stages of the Cold War, with a program born out of the need of the Italian army to modernize the fleet of tanks they had during the Cold War, which were the Leopards and M60s. Those tanks would be considered obsolete, considering the fact that many countries around the world who adopted such designs had either put them out of service or replaced them for something more modern. To make the new Italian MBT, Italy put Iveco and OTO Melara in charge. Iveco dealt with the hull, transmission, and engine, while OTO Melara took care of the turret, cannon, and the installation of sights. After many changes, and a couple of wooden mock-ups, the C1 Ariete (P), would first be shown to the public, at a presentation inside of La Spezia in 1987. Development kept on continuing towards the year of 1990, which allowed both Iveco and OTO Melara to refine the C1 Ariete's design. Deliveries were scheduled to first take place in 1993, however due to some setbacks (likely funding) it wouldn't be until 1995 that the first C1 Ariete production deliveries actually took place. At first an order of 300 tanks would be made, but due to the Cold War coming to an end, it was reduced to only 200 units, which would all finally be delivered on 7th August 2002.
  
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*
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The C1 Ariete had many new advancements that the previous tanks that Italy used could only dream of having. The first C1 Ariete production models had access to the TURMS 3rd generation LTFCS made by Officine Galileo, which gave the capability to the Ariete to fire on the move, both during the day and at night. However later down the line, the last 50 Arietes would receive an upgrade of their sights, which resulted in many improvements, such as giving the C1 Ariete commanders thermal imaging. In terms of armaments, the C1 Ariete (P) and C1 Ariete Production have access to a 120 mm smoothbore gun, made by OTO Melara, with similarities to the German made L44. The Ariete can fire all NATO standard munitions, however as of now the best round that is known the vehicle has in service, would be the CL3143 APFSDS, which is a license-produced version of the M332 Israeli-made round. In 2010 there were plans to buy M338 APFSDS for the C1 Ariete, which was basically DM43 with an improved cap, but nothing came out of it, however as previously mentioned before, if need be the C1 Ariete can fire the majority of NATO standard munitions. The C1 Ariete's armour is currently classified, as it is currently still in service, however CIO (Consorzio Iveco-Oto Melara) claim that it is a mix of steel and composite on both the hull and turret. Most experts claim that the C1 Ariete, at least the first production models, had similar if not better protection than a Leopard 2A4, this does hold some truth as both tanks were designed around the same time.
  
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== History ==
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Currently there are 3 known upgrades to the C1 Ariete armour, one of which was first shown in 2002 in the form of a mock-up of the "C2 Ariete", though the planned upgrades never came into fruition. However a couple of C1 production Arietes would later be equipped and tested with the add-on armour package known as "WAR". As the name implies, the new pack was made for war scenarios, and is said to stop a lot of APFSDS rounds from actually entering the tank, giving a new elevated protection to both the tank and the crew. The second armour upgrade would come in the form of the "PSO" kit (Peace Support Operation), which would add new composite add-on armour to the sides of the C1 Ariete. The Ariete PSO was deployed during Operation Ancient Babylon in Iraq. And last but not least, recently it was discovered that a mix of WAR+PSO was tested on the C1 Ariete, although little to no information is available on this upgrade. There is one upgrade that is in the works, known as the C1 Ariete AMV, standing for "Ammodernamento di Mezza Vita" (English: "mid life update"). This new update is said to bring the C1 Ariete up to standard; planned upgrades include a new modern sight and thermal system made by Leonardo, active protection systems, better armour, new engine, and much more. The first 3 AMV prototypes are said to be complete by the end of 2021. In terms of service, the C1 Ariete has partaken in many peace-keeping operations around the globe, such as in Yugoslavia, Iraq, and now currently being used in Latvia for NATO's Enhanced Forward Presence mission.
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''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
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<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
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;Skins
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=it_c1_ariete Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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 +
;Videos
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{{Youtube-gallery|ifv05cSErOc|'''The Shooting Range #152''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:35 discusses the Ariete.}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
  
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* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
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* [[Ariete AMV]]
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
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* [[Ariete PSO]]
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* [[Ariete (P)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
  
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/413416-carro-armato-ariete-c1/
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* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
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* https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/454340-add-on-armor-modification-for-production-c1-ariete/
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* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer OTO Melara}}
 
{{Italy medium tanks}}
 
{{Italy medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 20:12, 20 October 2024

This page is about the Italian MBT Ariete. For other uses, see Ariete (Disambiguation).
Ariete
it_c1_ariete.png
GarageImage Ariete.jpg
GarageImage Ariete AddArmour.jpg
Ariete
Italy flag.png Italy
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.7
Class:
Research:175 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:950 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The C1 Ariete was developed by OTO Melara during the late Cold War to allow the Italian army to equip itself with a modern tank which could easily deal with Yugoslav and Warsaw pact tanks.

Introduced in Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy", this Italian MBT is one of the staple tanks that you can add to your lineup. The key differences when compared to the C1 Ariete Preserie include better armour in the form of the unlockable WAR kit, better optics which include gen 2 commander and gunner thermals and lastly better firepower which includes the DM53 APFSDS round. It's a great MBT when used by players who can work around its weaknesses, mobility is also not bad which means you will easily be able to keep up with the majority of your teammates in battle.

General info

Survivability and armour

Composite armour
Balanced protection against all types of ammunition
Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
LWS
Notifies about the vehicle's exposure to laser emissions
Armourfront / side / back
Hull110 / 65 / 20
Turret140 / 60 / 20
Crew4 people
Visibility88 %

The C1 Ariete is the least armoured top tier MBT currently in the game but that does not mean it has no armour to speak of. The turret front is decently protected especially with the WAR kit modification allowing it to stop all APFSDS rounds fired from guns smaller than 120 mm as well as most of the weaker 120 mm APFSDS rounds such as the 3BM22, L23A1 and DM13. The WAR kit also makes the turret invulnerable to all HEAT threats except for tandem ATGMs. The mantlet on the Ariete is not too large but it will be your weak spot from the front but that is also true for all other MBTs. The gunner and commander sit on the left side of the turret while the loader sits on the right, and the large optics block on the left side of the turret can occasionally save your gunner and commander by soaking up the post-penetration damage.

Unfortunately that's where the armour ends, the hull is one large weak spot with a huge LFP consisting of just one angled 50 mm plate that won't stop anything fired at you even from vehicles in a downtier; while the UFP is made out of spaced armour that can only stop autocannon rounds or 105 mm APDS shells. Shots through the hull will most likely take out the tank immediately, a shot on the left side of the hull front would take out the driver, gunner and commander, while a shot to the right side would hit the first stage ammo rack. Like most top tier vehicles, the tank sides offer little protection, though the fuel tanks in the side of the hull might soak up the occasional HEAT round but it isn't something you can rely on. Ultimately, it is advised to play this tank away from the front lines sniping whenever possible peaking from behind cover to maximize the use of your turret armour.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret, internal plates)
  • High-hardness rolled armour (hull UFP, turret front)
  • Composite armour (turret front)
  • Spaced armour (hull UFP, gun mantlet, turret sides)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull Spaced Armour Upper glacis
50 mm (50°) Lower glacis
35 mm (60°) Sponson front		 10-20 mm Top
35 mm Bottom 		20 mm 35 mm Crew compartment
20 mm Engine compartment
5 mm Exhaust radiators
Turret Composite armour Turret front
Spaced armour + 90 mm Gun mantlet 		Spaced armour 20 mm + 10 mm 40 mm Front portion

20 mm Rear portion

Internal armour:

  • 20 mm - Upper hull sides
  • 35 mm - Upper hull sides
  • 10 mm - Between driver and hull ammo rack
  • 8 mm - Between crew and engine compartments
Composite/spaced armour Front Sides
Hull Upper glacis
300 - 400+ mm Chemical
235 - 300+ mm Kinetic 		N/A
Turret Turret front
520 - 600+ mm Chemical
380 - 400+ mm Kinetic
Gun mantlet
210 - 530+ mm Chemical
175 - 400+ mm Kinetic 		Turret side
45 - 400+ mm Chemical
45 - 225+ mm Kinetic

Notes:

  • Tracks and suspension - 20 mm
  • Sideskirts - 12 mm
  • Fenders - 5 mm
  • There is a 10 mm composite screen on the turret roof

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB73 / 52 km/h
RB and SB65 / 47 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
4 back
Weight59.5 t
Engine power
AB2 480 hp
RB and SB1 300 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB41.7 hp/t
RB and SB21.8 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock AoA Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 73 52 58.5 1 1,761 2,480 30.1 41.68
Realistic 65 47 1,150 1,300 19.66 21.85

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 398 → 6 856 Sl icon.png
RB4 298 → 6 700 Sl icon.png
SB5 437 → 8 476 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications277 400 Rp icon.png
458 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training270 000 Sl icon.png
Experts950 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 210 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 190 / 210 % Sl icon.png
244 / 244 / 244 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement it.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods tank additional armor.png
War kit
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_NATO_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods counterMeasures.png
LWS/LR
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_DM_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

120 mm OTO Breda 120/44 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition42 rounds
First-order15 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
6.5 → 5.0 s
Vertical guidance-9° / 20°
Main article: OTO Breda 120/44 (120 mm)
120 mm OTO Breda 120/44 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 42 -9°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 38.1 52.7 64.0 70.8 75.3 6.5 5.75 5.3 5.00
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
DM12A1 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
DM33 APFSDS 481 478 470 461 450 440
DM53 APFSDS 623 620 610 598 586 573
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DM12A1 HEATFS 1,140 13.5 0.05 0.1 2.15 65° 72° 77°
DM33 APFSDS 1,640 4.3 - - - 78° 80° 81°
DM53 APFSDS 1,670 5 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Ariete
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
42 16 (+26) 1 (+41) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • Rack 2 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 15 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
  • Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from rack 1 into rack 2. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready rack.

Machine guns

7.62 mm Beretta MG42/59 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 600 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate801 shots/min
2 x 7.62 mm Beretta MG42/59 machine gun
Ammunition4 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate801 shots/min
Main article: Beretta MG42/59 (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm Beretta MG42/59
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,600 (200) 801 N/A N/A
Pintle (Commander) - R 2,000 (200) 801 -8°/+60° ±120°
Pintle (Loader) - L 2,000 (200) 801 -8°/+60° ±120°

Usage in battles

The C1 Ariete has access to a decent APFSDS round known the DM53 which can easily take care of the majority of MBT's you'll face at your battle rating. What makes this C1 Ariete unique is that it has access to a special modification known as the WAR add-on armour kit. This is one of the later modifications you can install unto the C1 Ariete which greatly improves survivability against APFSDS rounds such as some 125 mm APFSDS munitions found primarily on Russian MBT'S. The WAR kit is not as good as soaking up damage as the PSO kit when it comes to HEAT and the majority of low level IFV autocannon fire, however it still is useful and will surprisingly come in useful when you least expect it. The best playstyle for the C1 Ariete especially when you are just starting out with it, would be more a supportive one, such as flanking manoeuvres or to stick with your better armoured teammates who can withstand hits such as Leopards 2A6. The Ariete being one of the weakest top tier MBTs for its battle rating, it is advised to keep your distance and try pick enemies from far away. With the DM53 APFSDS round, you can easily take out the majority of enemies with one hit if you aim right. Most top tier MBT weak spots at the front are the lower front of the vehicle. If you manage to flank the enemy team, go for the sides or where the ammunition is stored as that also will usually get rid of an enemy quickly. When you have unlocked the WAR add-on armour kit, you have more chances to play hull down which will greatly increase your overall effectiveness on the battlefield, as you'll be able to withstand some shots coming your way. Mobility wise this is much better than the PSO, you will be able to keep up with your team and at times be even faster than some tanks such as the Challenger 2. Remember that in Arcade Battles, enemies can easily find out where you are with your name tag and where your weak spots are so try not to be out in the open when possible. The C1 Ariete also has access to commanders thermals, this will be one of the most useful items in your arsenal and will allow you to better spot enemies from behind cover, as well as quickly engage and disengage without exposing yourself long enough for the enemy to see you coming. If you can master this technique, you'll be able to still be useful despite being at a disadvantage.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The DM33 APFSDS round is a tier 1 modification
  • The turret cheeks are reasonably armoured against HEATFS below 125 mm, especially with the War kit modification equipped
  • Decent mobility forwards
  • The commander has access to thermal sights, and both gunner and commander thermals are Gen 2 (higher resolution)
  • Outstanding gun handling characteristics
  • Quick and responsive reverse
  • Fairly decent and reactive mobility at medium to high speeds
  • Quick neutral steering
  • DM53, combined with great thermals and a laser rangefinder make for an exceptionally deadly sniper
  • Unlike other NATO MBTs, there is no ammo rack in the turret bustle: a penetration in the turret rarely destroys the tank in one shot

Cons:

  • Hull armour almost non-existent
  • Placement of crew members and first stage ammo rack make hits to the hull fatal
  • The lack of armour is not counteracted by improved mobility, the mobility is average for a rank VII ground vehicle
  • The stock ammunition is HEATFS, the DM53 APFSDS round is a tier 4 modification
  • The War kit armour package is a tier 4 modification
  • The War kit armour package only increases chemical protection, with missiles and 125 mm HEATFS still able to penetrate
  • Transmission makes low speed manoeuvring sluggish
  • Russian tanks, protected by explosive reactive armour, can at times directly withstand DM53.

History

The history of the C1 Ariete begins during the late stages of the Cold War, with a program born out of the need of the Italian army to modernize the fleet of tanks they had during the Cold War, which were the Leopards and M60s. Those tanks would be considered obsolete, considering the fact that many countries around the world who adopted such designs had either put them out of service or replaced them for something more modern. To make the new Italian MBT, Italy put Iveco and OTO Melara in charge. Iveco dealt with the hull, transmission, and engine, while OTO Melara took care of the turret, cannon, and the installation of sights. After many changes, and a couple of wooden mock-ups, the C1 Ariete (P), would first be shown to the public, at a presentation inside of La Spezia in 1987. Development kept on continuing towards the year of 1990, which allowed both Iveco and OTO Melara to refine the C1 Ariete's design. Deliveries were scheduled to first take place in 1993, however due to some setbacks (likely funding) it wouldn't be until 1995 that the first C1 Ariete production deliveries actually took place. At first an order of 300 tanks would be made, but due to the Cold War coming to an end, it was reduced to only 200 units, which would all finally be delivered on 7th August 2002.

The C1 Ariete had many new advancements that the previous tanks that Italy used could only dream of having. The first C1 Ariete production models had access to the TURMS 3rd generation LTFCS made by Officine Galileo, which gave the capability to the Ariete to fire on the move, both during the day and at night. However later down the line, the last 50 Arietes would receive an upgrade of their sights, which resulted in many improvements, such as giving the C1 Ariete commanders thermal imaging. In terms of armaments, the C1 Ariete (P) and C1 Ariete Production have access to a 120 mm smoothbore gun, made by OTO Melara, with similarities to the German made L44. The Ariete can fire all NATO standard munitions, however as of now the best round that is known the vehicle has in service, would be the CL3143 APFSDS, which is a license-produced version of the M332 Israeli-made round. In 2010 there were plans to buy M338 APFSDS for the C1 Ariete, which was basically DM43 with an improved cap, but nothing came out of it, however as previously mentioned before, if need be the C1 Ariete can fire the majority of NATO standard munitions. The C1 Ariete's armour is currently classified, as it is currently still in service, however CIO (Consorzio Iveco-Oto Melara) claim that it is a mix of steel and composite on both the hull and turret. Most experts claim that the C1 Ariete, at least the first production models, had similar if not better protection than a Leopard 2A4, this does hold some truth as both tanks were designed around the same time.

Currently there are 3 known upgrades to the C1 Ariete armour, one of which was first shown in 2002 in the form of a mock-up of the "C2 Ariete", though the planned upgrades never came into fruition. However a couple of C1 production Arietes would later be equipped and tested with the add-on armour package known as "WAR". As the name implies, the new pack was made for war scenarios, and is said to stop a lot of APFSDS rounds from actually entering the tank, giving a new elevated protection to both the tank and the crew. The second armour upgrade would come in the form of the "PSO" kit (Peace Support Operation), which would add new composite add-on armour to the sides of the C1 Ariete. The Ariete PSO was deployed during Operation Ancient Babylon in Iraq. And last but not least, recently it was discovered that a mix of WAR+PSO was tested on the C1 Ariete, although little to no information is available on this upgrade. There is one upgrade that is in the works, known as the C1 Ariete AMV, standing for "Ammodernamento di Mezza Vita" (English: "mid life update"). This new update is said to bring the C1 Ariete up to standard; planned upgrades include a new modern sight and thermal system made by Leonardo, active protection systems, better armour, new engine, and much more. The first 3 AMV prototypes are said to be complete by the end of 2021. In terms of service, the C1 Ariete has partaken in many peace-keeping operations around the globe, such as in Yugoslavia, Iraq, and now currently being used in Latvia for NATO's Enhanced Forward Presence mission.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #152 - Metal Beasts section at 00:35 discusses the Ariete.

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:


OTO Melara
Light Tanks/IFVs 
Centauro  Centauro I 105 · Centauro I 105 R · Centauro I 120 · VRCC
Dardo  Dardo · VCC-80/30 · VCC-80/60
Other  C13 T90 · R3 T106 FA
MBTs 
OF-40  OF-40 · OF-40 Mk.2A · OF-40 (MTCA)
Ariete  Ariete (P) · Ariete · Ariete PSO · Ariete AMV
Other  M47 (105/55)
Tank Destroyers  M113A1 (TOW)
SPAA  R3 T20 FA-HS · SIDAM 25 · SIDAM 25 (Mistral) · OTOMATIC
Patrol Boats 
Sparviero-class  Sparviero*
See Also  OTO
  *Built by OTO Melara in La Spezia under the Alinavi S.p.A. consortium

Italy medium tanks
  Italy
M13/40  M13/40 (I) · M13/40 (II) · M13/40 (III)
M14/41  M14/41 · M14/41 (47/40)
M15/42  M15/42
M16/43  Celere Sahariano
P26/40  P40 · P40 "G.C. Leoncello"
OF-40  OF-40 · OF-40 Mk.2A · OF-40 (MTCA)
Ariete  Ariete (P) · Ariete · Ariete PSO · Ariete AMV
Germany  ▄Pz.III N · ▄Pz.IV G · ▄Leopard 1A5
Allied powers  ▄Sherman I Composito · Sherman Ic · ▄Sherman Vc · ▄Sherman V · M26 "D.C.Ariete" · M26A1 · M47 (105/55) · M60A1 "D.C.Ariete"
  Hungary
Turán  Turan I · Turan II · Turan III
Germany  ◔Leopard 2A4 · Leopard 2A7HU
USSR  ◔T-72M1

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