Leonardo and Rheinmetall Collaborate on European Tanks
Italian aerospace giant Leonardo and German defense contractor Rheinmetall have announced the formation of a 50:50 joint venture. This strategic partnership, revealed on October 15, 2024, aims to spearhead the development and production of next-generation military vehicles, with a primary focus on meeting the Italian Army’s modernization needs.
The newly formed company, Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), will be headquartered in Rome with operational facilities in La Spezia, Italy. Pending final regulatory approvals, the joint venture is expected to commence operations by early 2025.
LRMV’s primary objectives extend beyond merely supplying vehicles. The joint venture aims to become a central player in European defence vehicle development and production, drive innovation in military vehicle technology, and enhance interoperability among European armed forces.
The joint venture’s initial focus will be on two major projects: a new Italian Main Battle Tank (MBT) based on Rheinmetall’s advanced Panther KF51 platform, and the Lynx Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS). These projects are part of Italy’s ambitious plan to procure over 1,000 armoured vehicles in 16 different variants, including anti-aircraft, anti-tank, and reconnaissance configurations.
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The partnership leverages the unique strengths of both companies, with Leonardo responsible for developing mission systems, electronics, and weapons integration, while Rheinmetall contributes advanced vehicle platforms and armour technologies.
“We are creating a new heavyweight in European tank production… primarily addressing the Italian market but also targeting other nations in need of modernising their combat systems.”
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall, emphasized the importance of the joint venture, stating:
Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani added: “This is a significant step towards the creation of a European defence system based on shared platforms, aiming at international competitiveness.”
The formation of LRMV signals a new era in European defense cooperation. As the joint venture moves forward, it is poised to meet growing demand for modern armoured vehicles across Europe, enhance standardization and interoperability among NATO allies, and compete more effectively with global defense industry giants.
As Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles prepares to commence operations, the defense industry will be watching closely. This partnership has the potential to not only transform Italy’s military capabilities but also to reshape the landscape of European defense production for decades to come.
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