Italy aims for $26 billion vehicle investment and prepares for cyber defence
Italy is set to order more than 1,000 KF41 vehicles and is already testing one platform. (Photo: Rheinmetall)
Italy’s Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS) system began seven years ago in an effort to replace older vehicles such as M113s and the force is also looking to replace its C1 Ariete Main Battle Tanks (MBTs).
The Italian Army has ambitious plans to buy 1050 heavy tracked vehicles in 16 variants under a €16 billion (US$16.4 billion) programme covering infantry fighting, air defence and reconnaissance vehicles, with a separate €10 billion plan for MBTs.
The scope of the effort was outlined by Lt Gen Salvatore Camporeale, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Italian Army, at Defence IQ’s International Armoured Vehicle conference late last month.
The tracked vehicle variants will be built around the Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx, a sample of which has already been delivered to the Italian Army for testing and evaluation, while the
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)]()
Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)
Technology that enables armed forces to leverage existing network infrastructure can be a game-changer in many combat scenarios.
-
![Rheinmetall Nordic’s Ragnarok mortar upgrade shows strong integration potential]()
Rheinmetall Nordic’s Ragnarok mortar upgrade shows strong integration potential
The Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module has demonstrated its ability to quickly switch platforms, presenting scope for it to be employed for multiple requirements.
-
![Could an outdated US Army organic industrial base threaten US readiness?]()
Could an outdated US Army organic industrial base threaten US readiness?
The US Army’s organic industrial base still uses World War II production methods and technologies, leading to delays and cost overruns and limiting its ability to produce critical ammunition and maintain its ground fleet in operation.
