Russia tests Italian tank

Moscow - Russia is testing Italy's Centauro tank and considers building it under license, a representative of the Oto-Melara company which makes the tank said  Saturday.

"The first two machines with 105-mm and 125-mm guns are on trial...," he said.

Two more Centauros with 120-mm and 30-mm guns will also join the trials in another six weeks.

"The tanks will take part in laboratory, driving and firing trials," the Oto-Melara representative said.

When the trials are complete at the end of this year, Russia will consider creating a joint venture for production of the tank with an enterprise from the Russian military-industrial complex, he  said.

Russian truck maker Kamaz in Naberezhny Chelny could be involved in the deal, according to a source in Russian arms sales holding Rosoboronexport.

Russia signed a deal with Italy in December for the semi-knocked down assembly of 60 Lynx light multirole armoured vehicles (LMV) from Iveco, Deputy Defense Minister Alexander

Sukhorukov said in January.

Oto-Melara, part of the Italian Finnmeccanica group, is part of the CIO joint venture with vehicle manufacturer Iveco to make military vehicles.

Italy already has 400 Centauros in service. The 24 tonne tank has a four-man crew, top speed of 100 km/h and a range of 800 km. It has a main gun and two 7.62 mm machineguns.