Breaking News
Breaking News: Leonardo and Rheinmetall Join Forces to Develop Italy's Future Main Battle Tank.
On October 15, 2024, Leonardo and Rheinmetall announced the formation of a joint venture dedicated to producing next-generation combat vehicles. Named Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), this alliance marks a significant collaboration between the Italian and German defense giants, targeting both domestic and international markets. With its headquarters in Rome and an operational base in La Spezia, LRMV is set to officially launch in early 2025, pending regulatory approval.
The KF51 Panther, designed in Germany, represents a new generation of main battle tanks. (Picture source: Rheinmetall)
LRMV is structured as an equal partnership, with each company holding a 50% stake. The initial and ambitious goal of this alliance is to develop and produce Italy’s future main battle tank (MBT), based on Rheinmetall’s KF51 Panther model, along with an advanced Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS) based on the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle. This collaboration aligns with the Italian Army’s land systems modernization program, with a particular emphasis on armored mobility, lethality, and modularity.
The KF51 Panther is intended to eventually replace the Ariete tank in the Italian fleet, meeting the evolving needs of the Italian Army. Additionally, the Italian AICS program is expected to facilitate the acquisition of over 1,000 armored vehicles in 16 different configurations, including anti-aircraft (Skyranger), reconnaissance, and anti-tank variants. These vehicles are designed with a modular structure, enabling easy customization and upgrades to adapt to various mission profiles.
Under the agreement, around 60% of production activities will take place in Italy, with a focus on final assembly, homologation testing, logistics, and support. Leonardo will be responsible for providing mission systems, electronic suites, and weapons integration in line with the Italian client’s specifications. Rheinmetall's strong presence in Italy, with approximately 1,500 employees across five sites, will further strengthen this project by incorporating its technological expertise and substantial local operations.
Roberto Cingolani, CEO of Leonardo, emphasized the broader strategic implications of the joint venture: “This is an important step toward creating a European defense system based on shared specialized platforms. Rheinmetall and Leonardo aim to develop cutting-edge technologies capable of competing internationally.”
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the partnership’s commitment to addressing not only Italy’s needs but also those of other European and allied nations in combat vehicle modernization: “We are creating a new heavyweight in European tank production. Leonardo and Rheinmetall, two leading European defense technology suppliers, are joining forces for ambitious projects.”
The KF51 Panther, designed in Germany, represents a new generation of main battle tanks, integrating advanced firepower, optimized protection, and sophisticated battlefield management capabilities. Its primary armament is a 130 mm cannon, providing increased firepower compared to traditional 120 mm tanks. This cannon is complemented by a 12.7 mm coaxial machine gun and a remotely operated weapon station with a 7.62 mm machine gun, ensuring coverage against infantry and light threats. Additionally, the KF51 features a launcher capable of deploying four loitering munitions, thereby extending its long-range strike capabilities and enabling surveillance or target neutralization missions at a distance.
Protection is a key element in the KF51 Panther’s design. With an optimized weight of 59 tons, it incorporates a comprehensive protection system that combines active, reactive, and passive technologies to ensure crew safety in the most demanding combat environments. This sophisticated protection suite provides integrated defense against ballistic threats, explosives, and guided missile attacks.
In terms of mobility, the KF51 can reach a maximum speed of 70 km/h, and its operational range of 500 km allows for efficient maneuvering on the battlefield and long-distance coverage without frequent refueling. Its imposing structure measures 7.8 meters in length, 3.7 meters in width, and 2.5 meters in height, providing ample space for a crew of four, divided between two primary and two secondary positions.
To enhance survivability and mission effectiveness, the KF51 is equipped with various advanced systems, such as panoramic sight cameras for the commander and gunner, an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system that ensures crew safety in extreme conditions, night vision capabilities, and a full suite of 360° cameras. A laser rangefinder and a combat management system enable accurate target detection, identification, and engagement while coordinating actions within the unit. Although the KF51 Panther is not yet in service, it represents a promising technological advancement for armies seeking to modernize their armored forces with cutting-edge equipment.
By creating this joint venture, Leonardo and Rheinmetall mark a new phase in European defense collaboration, paving the way for increased capabilities within the Italian armed forces while strengthening export potential to allied markets. As the European defense landscape faces growing demand for advanced and adaptable land systems, LRMV is poised to play a central role in this evolving industry.