29.10.2026 22:05
Italy is preparing a new multi-billion-euro military procurement program to increase the strength of its ground forces. The order, worth 3.7 billion euros and covering 30 tanks and 48 armored fighting vehicles, is among the notable projects of the European defense industry. With the implementation of the plan, the aim is to renew the Italian army's aging vehicles and modernize its ground forces.
Italy has reportedly reached a total €3.7 billion agreement for 30 next-generation tanks and 48 armored fighting vehicles to modernize its land forces. The order, said to be carried out through a joint venture between Italian defense company Leonardo and German Rheinmetall, forms an important part of the country's comprehensive military modernization program. However, the agreement has not yet been officially confirmed.
TANKS TO BE BUILT ON PANTHER PLATFORM
According to news reported by Reuters and based on Italian business newspaper Milano Finanza, under the order Italy plans to procure new-generation main battle tanks and armored fighting vehicles within the A2CS program.
The new tanks are expected to be adapted to the needs of the Italian army based on the KF51 Panther platform developed by German defense industry company Rheinmetall. The program is intended to contribute to the renewal of Italy's existing Ariete tank fleet.
48 LYNX ARMORED VEHICLES TO BE ADDED TO INVENTORY
The other leg of the order consists of 48 armored fighting vehicles based on the Lynx platform developed by Rheinmetall. The new vehicles, expected to be added to the 21 vehicles Italy previously ordered, are envisaged to replace the aging Dardo armored fighting vehicles.
Italy's long-term plan is not limited to these purchases. The country aims to acquire 132 main battle tanks and 140 support vehicles to be developed on the same platform in the coming years. Under the Lynx-based vehicle program, approximately 1,050 vehicles are planned to be procured for different missions.
TOTAL COST OF THE TWO PROGRAMS €23 BILLION
The total cost of Italy's tank and armored vehicle modernization programs is stated to potentially reach approximately €23 billion. The tank program is expected to last until 2037, and the A2CS armored vehicle program until 2040.
Leonardo and Rheinmetall established an equal-partnership joint venture in 2024. The two companies are reported to aim to strengthen Italy's defense industry capacity and carry out a significant portion of production activities in the country.
However, reports regarding the €3.7 billion order have not yet been confirmed by an official statement. Rheinmetall declined to comment, while Leonardo executive Lorenzo Mariani said he could not confirm whether the contract had been signed.