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Italy Launches Ambitious Project for Next-Generation Tanks and Reinforced Ground Forces.
The Italian parliamentary committee has approved a military modernization program, endorsing an €8.2 billion plan to acquire next-generation tanks and upgrade the country’s ground forces. This initiative, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, is part of a long-term strategy aimed at aligning the Italian military with the evolving geopolitical needs of Europe and NATO. The program, spanning from 2025 to 2038, is designed to gradually increase Italy's military capabilities in response to rising tensions across Europe and to bolster regional security.
Rheinmetall’s Panther KF51 model may serve as the foundation for Italy’s new battle tank, which is intended to replace the aging Ariete tanks in use since the 1990s (Picture source: Rheinmetall)
According to a parliamentary document reviewed by Reuters, €5.4 billion has already been allocated for the initial phase, with the remaining €2.7 billion to be secured through future financing measures. This project underscores Italy's commitment to national and European security amid increasing strategic uncertainties facing NATO.
A central component of the program is the introduction of a new main battle tank, described as a "heavy component platform" in the parliamentary document. While specific companies were not named, Leonardo and the German group Rheinmetall are expected to play a primary role. This partnership is further reinforced by the recent establishment of the Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV) joint venture, aimed at developing modern military vehicles. Sources close to the project suggest that this joint venture will be the key industrial player in Italy’s military upgrade.
Rheinmetall’s Panther KF51 model may serve as the foundation for Italy’s new battle tank, intended to replace the aging Ariete tanks in use since the 1990s. Currently, Italy operates about 200 Ariete tanks, of which only 50 are fully operational. The focus on creating a new tank reflects Italy’s objective to enhance its defense capabilities, particularly to fulfill NATO commitments.
The LRMV joint venture, announced in July, marks a significant step toward consolidating the European defense industry. Leonardo and Rheinmetall executives, Roberto Cingolani and Armin Papperger, have highlighted the strategic importance of this alliance in supporting European defense. As military budgets increase across Europe, this partnership could capture a share of the expanding European market, projected to exceed €50 billion in the coming years. The collaboration with Rheinmetall also enables Italy to secure nearly 60% of the joint venture’s activities domestically, with a notable presence in Rome and operations in the port city of La Spezia.
Alongside the development of a new battle tank, LRMV will also focus on the Lynx platform for the AICS (Armoured Infantry Combat System) program, part of Italy's broader plan to modernize its land systems. Initial orders for these new vehicles are expected by late 2024 or early 2025, with the first deliveries planned within the subsequent two years.
As Europe seeks to strengthen its military stance, this German-Italian alliance may extend its reach to other partner nations looking to upgrade their combat systems. The program thus aligns with a broader trend of enhanced European defense cooperation in the face of increasingly complex security challenges. In conclusion, Italy’s army modernization initiative represents a pivotal step toward strengthening the country’s military capabilities, positioning Italy as a significant contributor to European defense efforts.