Italy weighs up the challenge of its tank replacement plans
Italy’s Ariete C1 MBTs are to be replaced. (Photo: Italian Army)
The Italian Army has been focused on creating a C4ISR node within its future tank plans while looking to address an age-old additional problem. With plans for a new MBT fleet before 2040, the increasing weight of such platforms has raised another issue.
How to keep the weight off and maintain capability, reach and protection will be a pivotal challenge, according to Maj Gen Francesco Olla, head of III department (Military Policy and Planning) of the Italian Army.
Olla, speaking at Defence IQ’s C4ISR Global conference on 18 April, sung from the same hymn sheet as most other speakers, namely lessons from Ukraine
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
AUSA 2026: companies adapt munitions and missiles for greater effect at lower costs
Rather than developing entirely new weapons, defence companies are looking to build on existing weapons and systems to deliver greater capability, control costs and accelerate fielding.
-
With changing patterns in Middle Eastern procurement, is Europe missing out?
Traditional suppliers are struggling to meet the Middle East’s armoured vehicle modernisation needs, creating opportunities for South Korean manufacturers and regional defence industries.
-
AUSA 2026: CUAS market expands as suppliers target new threats and operational requirements
New developments from MARSS, MyDefence, Mountain Horse Solutions and Rafael suggest that future counter-drone protection will increasingly depend on combining advanced detection, rapid interception and integrated defensive networks.