Olifant Mk.2 Main battle tank (South Africa)
Channel: Main Battle Tank
Date: 17/01/2023

In 2003 and 2005 BAE Systems received contracts to upgrade a total of 26 South African Olifant Mk.1B main battle tanks to the Olifant Mk.2 standard. The Mk.2 uses a number of components, previously developed for the TTD. First vehicles were scheduled for delivery in 2006 - 2007.

   The Olifant Mk.2 MBT is better protected than the previous vehicle. It is completed with modular armor packages. Elements of such armor can be easily replaced if damaged or when more advanced armor is available. Prototype had a wedge-shaped front turret armor, similar to that of the German Leopard 2A5.

   The Olifant Mk 2 tank is armed with a fully-stabilized 105 mm rifled gun. This gun is loaded manually and fires all standard NATO 105 mm ammunition. Ammunition is stored in the turret bustle, but it does not have blow off panels. It was proposed with a 120 mm smoothbore gun, but these plans were later abandoned. This MBT is undergunned by modern standards, however is is capable of disabling any encountered opposing tank in Africa.

   The Olifant Mk2 has an upgraded fire control system, which tracks a moving target automatically. This MBT also received new target detection and engagement systems. Vehicle has all-weather, day and night fighting capability. This main battle tank can engage moving targets, while on the move.

   Secondary armament consists two 7.62 mm machine guns. One of them is coaxially mounted with the main gun, while another is placed on top of the roof.

   The Olifant Mk.2 main battle tank has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, loader and driver.

   Vehicle is powered by a Continental diesel engine, developing 1 040 hp, which remains unchanged from the Olifant Mk.1B, but slightly uprated. These engines were US-built and acquired from Israel. The Mk.2 uses refurbished and upgraded chassis of the Mk.1B.