Italy and Germany have joined forces to form a 50-50 joint venture focusing on land defense systems in Europe. The primary goal is to develop two vehicles – the Italian Main Battle Tank and the Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle for the Italian Army. The long-term objective is to create the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), Europe’s future combat tank, emphasizing industrial development with an eye on international exports.
Headquartered in Italy, the joint venture will act as the Primary System Integrator for the new Main Battle Tank and the Lynx Platform for the Armored Infantry Combat System within Italian Army programs. Leonardo will handle mission systems, electronic assemblies, and weapon integration for the MBT and AICS programs, setting the stage for the future European MBT (MGCS) and new export versions. Rheinmetall brings its Panther main battle tank and Lynx infantry fighting vehicle technology to the partnership.
Italy and Germany Unite for Europe’s Next Combat Tank: MGCS
The CEOs of Rheinmetall AG and Leonardo expressed their enthusiasm for this collaboration, aiming to set new standards and create next-generation combat vehicles for Europe. This partnership underscores European unity in defense and innovation, with significant implications for Europe’s military future and the international defense market.