First Italian KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle begins trials before full-scale production.

As reported by Strike Commander on February 3, 2025, the Italian Army officially presented the KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) at the UTTAT Nettuno test range near Rome. The event was attended by senior military and industrial officials, including representatives from Leonardo and Rheinmetall, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Luciano Portolano. The presentation marks the initial phase of Italy’s transition to the Lynx platform, with the first units undergoing operational trials before production and full-scale deliveries commence.
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Italy's Army Armored Combat System (A2CS) program aims to replace the aging VCC-80 Dardo IFV through the acquisition of 1,050 Lynx vehicles in 16 variants. (Picture source: Twitter/Strike Commander)

The KF41 Lynx showcased at Nettuno originated from Rheinmetall’s Hungarian plant in Zalaegerszeg and had been undergoing operational tests at the Centro Polifunzionale di Sperimentazione dell’Esercito (CEPOLISPE) in Montelibretti since December 31, 2024. The event included demonstrations of the vehicle’s mobility, firepower, and protection systems, with live-fire testing of the Leonardo HITFIST 30 turret. The first batch of five Lynx vehicles, including IFV, light tank, air defense, and mortar variants, is scheduled for delivery in 2025, followed by 11 more in 2026.

Detailed by the Italian Army during the IAV 2025 conference, the Army Armored Combat System (A2CS) program is intended to replace the VCC-80 Dardo IFVs and establish a new armored brigade within five years. The program includes the acquisition of 1,050 Lynx vehicles in 16 variants. The modular design allows for reconfiguration between multiple roles, including command vehicles, reconnaissance, and combat engineering. The program is structured in phases, with the first vehicles being delivered in existing configurations before modifications are made to meet Italian operational requirements.

The A2CS program seems to prioritize the integration of the Leonardo HITFIST turret armed with a 30mm cannon. Additional configurations include light tanks with 120mm turrets, air defense units potentially integrating the Skyranger 30 system, mortar carriers, and anti-tank variants. The vehicles are expected to incorporate Rheinmetall’s Strike Shield active protection system, with additional evaluations considering Trophy or Iron Fist systems. Prototype testing will continue between 2026 and 2029, followed by full-scale production.

The Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV) joint venture is responsible for a significant portion of the A2CS program, with at least 60% of production planned to occur in Italy. Rheinmetall has committed to full technology transfer, enabling Leonardo to oversee the integration of Italian-made ITAR-free systems such as the X-GUN turret. The joint venture aligns with Italy’s objective of maintaining domestic defense production capabilities and minimizing dependence on foreign platforms.

The establishment of LRMV secures the long-term utilization of Leonardo’s armored vehicle manufacturing facilities in La Spezia, where production for the A2CS and the Italian Main Battle Tank (IMBT) programs will take place. The partnership extends beyond Italy, with potential for exports across Europe and to allied nations. Italy’s involvement in the program supports its participation in broader European defense initiatives and aligns with future collaboration on the development of a next-generation battle tank with Germany and France.

The KF41 Lynx, developed by Rheinmetall, was introduced in 2018 as a modular armored fighting vehicle designed for multiple mission profiles, including infantry transport, reconnaissance, and fire support. The vehicle features ballistic steel armor capable of withstanding anti-tank weapons, medium-caliber rounds, and artillery fragments. Modular armor kits and active protection systems provide additional defensive capabilities.

Hungary was the first operator of the KF41, with 218 vehicles ordered. Production has since expanded to Ukraine, and potential operators include Poland and Romania. The KF41 is also being evaluated in the U.S. XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle program, which could result in a production order of up to 3,800 units. Italy’s adoption of the Lynx through the A2CS program positions the vehicle as a core component of European armored modernization efforts, with applications across multiple combat roles.