Image source: topwar.ru
The official presentation of the Soleiman-402 tank, a deeply upgraded version of the M–60 of American origin, took place in Iran.
Approximately 400 M-60A1 units were acquired by Iran during the reign of the Shah from the United States, of which about 150 remain in service. According to the local IRNA publication, during the modernization, the tanks significantly improve their characteristics, have an increased level of protection, new means of communication and an optimized fire control system.
Image source: topwar.ru
As indicated in the Western press, which studied the details of the project, among the changes noticeable to the naked eye is the placement of additional armor on the hull and turret, which are also presumably covered with dynamic protection units.
Image source: topwar.ru
On the sides and back of the tower there is a metal body kit mounted on a faceted structure, which apparently provides little protection, given its small thickness. Armor was added in the frontal part of the hull, various equipment was installed on the tower: smoke grenade launchers, electronic devices, a weather sensor, a remotely controlled M-2 cal. 12.7 mm machine gun (presumably with daytime and thermal channels).
Image source: topwar.ru
The original gun is now covered with a massive casing, probably to reduce the heat footprint, although it can only play an aesthetic role.
In the front of the tower, an electro-optical counteraction system is visible, similar to the Shtora-1 system developed in Russia, used in the T-72 and T-90.
- it is noted in the press.
Image source: topwar.ru
Two optocoupler units are installed on both sides in the front of the tower, possibly a perimeter surveillance system with laser warning receivers. There is an electronic device on the body in the area of the mechanical drive for driving at night or in poor visibility conditions.
Image source: topwar.ru
There is no information about any improvements in the propulsion system. The smallest number of changes is typical for the back of the case.
