The Olifant Mk.1B Optimering is a further development of the South African Olifant main battle tank, itself derived from the British Centurion. The modernization program carried out during the 1990s focused on improving the vehicle's protection and combat effectiveness. The Optimering variant features a new turret with enhanced frontal armor protection and blowout panels designed to improve crew survivability in the event of ammunition detonation. The tank became one of the most advanced members of the Olifant family.

The tank is armed with a 105 mm gun paired with a merged 7.62 mm machine gun and is capable of firing modern DM63 APFSDS ammunition. Accurate target engagement is supported by a laser rangefinder and the gunner's thermal sight, allowing effective operation on the battlefield. To improve survivability, the vehicle is equipped with smoke grenade launchers.