Development of the Olifant by OMC [Lit; Olifant Manufacturing Company] started in 1976 and the first models entered service with the South African Armoured Corps in the late
1970's. The Olifant is very similar to the Semel which itself was based on an upgraded Centurion.
VARIANTS OF THE SERIES
Olifant - Modified Mk 5 or 7. Olifant AEV - Combat engineer vehicle. Olifant ARV - Armoured recovery version. Olifant 1 - Upgraded Centurion Mk 5 & 7 with new engine and 105mm gun. Olifant 1a - Upgraded Olifant with with external stowage modifications. Olifant 1b - Turret upgrade for Olifant 1. Olifant 1b4 - Improved armour layout and new chevron base sideplates. Olifant 2 - Olifant fitted with new turret. Olifant 2C - Version armed with 120mm gun. Semel - Upgraded ex-Indian Army Centurions. Skokiaan - Experimental Centurion upgrade project.
GENERAL RECOGNITION POINTS
Six roadwheels with top rollers normally concealed by sideplates.
Two angle glacis.
Driver located at front right of hull top with two-piece hatch.