The best choice: 380 tanks and 1000 IFVs

Il Ministero della Difesa italiano ha confermato l’intenzione di acquistare fino a 380 nuovi carri armati e oltre 1.000 veicoli da combattimento per la fanteria (IFV) nell’ambito di due importanti programmi di approvvigionamento.

The first programme is aimed at replacing the outdated C1 and C2 Ariete tanks with a new fleet based on the KF51 Panther. These vehicles will undergo extensive modifications to adapt to Italian operational requirements, a process referred to as 'Italianisation'. The programme will also include support vehicles built on the KF51 platform. Although the exact budget for this initiative has not been disclosed, it is estimated that it will exceed EUR 10 billion.

The second programme envisages the acquisition of around 1,050 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), with more detailed specifications already outlined. These vehicles will be based on the KF41 Lynx and developed in 16 different variants, including infantry fighting vehicles, command vehicles, self-propelled mortars (120 mm and 81 mm), anti-tank missile carriers, artillery reconnaissance units and military engineering support vehicles.

Additional variants are also planned to meet specific battlefield requirements, including command vehicles for artillery, air defence systems and reconnaissance vehicles for cavalry, infantry and fire support. The programme will also include medical evacuation vehicles, refuelling units and technical recovery vehicles. The total cost of this initiative is estimated at around EUR 16 billion.

Taken together, the two programmes represent a significant investment in Italy's defence capabilities, with a total projected cost exceeding EUR 30 billion in the acquisition phase.

Source: https://defence-industry.eu/italy-to-buy-up-to-380-new-tanks-and-over-1000-infantry-fighting-vehicles/