Italy’s Ministry of Defence has launched a tender worth approximately €5.14 billion for a new fleet of main battle tanks and related armored vehicles.
Production is set to be handled by Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), a 50:50 joint venture between German manufacturer Rheinmetall and Italian defense company Leonardo. A significant share of production and testing will take place in Italy.
The new tanks are intended to replace Italy’s aging C1 Ariete fleet. The transition is expected to be complete by 2038.
Under the agreement, Rheinmetall will provide the vehicle platform, while Leonardo will supply the armament and electronic systems. The investment reflects rising military spending in Europe and could benefit Rheinmetall.