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Finland receiving upgraded tank training simulators

Finland receiving training systems for Leopard tanks.

By Richard Tomkins
Saab to provide upgraded training systems for Finnish Leopard 2A6 tanks. Pictured, Leopard 2A tanks of the German Army. German Army photo
Saab to provide upgraded training systems for Finnish Leopard 2A6 tanks. Pictured, Leopard 2A tanks of the German Army. German Army photo

LINKOPING, Sweden, June 13 (UPI) -- Upgraded tank crew training simulators are being provided to the Finnish army by Saab of Sweden.

The modernized BT46 systems will be for Leopard 2A6 main battle tanks Finland ordered from the Netherlands last year that included BT46 systems, which are now to be upgraded.

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Saab said the modernized systems will be placed with two Finnish armored regiments -- an armor brigade at Parolannummi and the KASI site in Sakyla, which is the Finnish Army's mobile Combat Training Center.

"Finland has used Saab's training simulators since 1980 and in the mobile combat training center [KASI] since 2004," said Anders Gardberg, head of Saab in Finland. "The Finnish Defense Forces can now train up to battalion and brigade level, which really strengthens their capability in the field."

Included in the new contract are new control panels, computer and interface units, transport boxes, cables, Finnish-language manuals, new tactical radio interfaces and a support contract.

The BT46 training system is fire training with different weapons and with realistic and tactical combat field exercises.

Saab said delivery of the systems to Finland will take place this year. No details as to the value of the contract were disclosed.

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