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Italy.
co-operation with the Federal Republic of Germany and with
When these weapons are introduced, 155mm will be
the standard calibre for close and general support guns.
The SP 70 will replace the 105mm Abbot SP gun, the 155mm
M109 and possibly the 175mm M107 equipments. The FH 70
will replace the 5.5 inch medium gun.
Main Battle Tank
31. Concept studies of the future main battle tank are being
undertaken in co-operation with the Federal Republic of
Germany. Development of a new tank gun is further advanced and
it is hoped largely to standardise tank guns and ammunition
within NATO as a result of a tripartite evaluation of British,
American and German designs at trials which have now begun.
Other Combat Vehicles
32.
Prototypes of the combat engineer tractor are undergoing
trials. This equipment will enable the Royal Engineers to
perform many of their tasks protected by armour; it will dig,
bulldoze and winch, lay trackway, handle pallets, and launch
pontoons. It is amphibious and has a rocket-propelled anchor,
allowing it to winch itself up steep banks: the combat
tractor should provide considerable help to mechanised units
in river-crossing operations.
33. Other projects in progress include:
a.
b.
a mechanised infantry combat vehicle, which
will replace the FV 430 series;
a new range of vehicles for battlefield
logistic support; and
VII-11
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