Italy to Procure 380 KF51 Panther Tanks, 1,050 IFVs

Italy’s Ministry of Defence announced plans to acquire up to 380 KF51 Panther main battle tanks (MBTs) and more than 1,000 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) as part of a modernization program.

The initiative was revealed at the IAV 2025 conference, with a total investment expected to surpass €10 billion, Defence Industry Europe reports.

The KF51 Panther, developed by Rheinmetall, will replace the Italian Army's C1 and C2 Ariete tanks. The tank features a 130 mm L/52 smoothbore cannon, offering increased firepower compared to the existing 120 mm systems. The KF51 also includes a StrikeShield active defense system, sensors, and a V12 diesel engine producing 1,500 horsepower. Its modular design allows for future adaptation, including unmanned turret variants.

Italy will also procure approximately 1,050 IFVs based on the Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx platform, which will be developed in 16 configurations to fulfill various roles such as command posts, anti-tank operations, reconnaissance, and engineering support. The modularity of the Lynx platform allows for flexibility in its use.

To support this program, Italy’s Leonardo and Rheinmetall formed a joint venture, Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), in October 2024. The joint venture will produce both the KF51 Panther and the KF41 Lynx platforms, with 60% of the production taking place in Italy, including assembly, integration, and testing at facilities in La Spezia.

The modernization program is part of Italy’s broader defense strategy, which includes enhancing its long-range strike capabilities with the acquisition of M142 HIMARS rocket launchers, expanding its air capabilities with additional F-35 aircraft, and investing in advanced naval systems such as the Trieste Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD).

The new KF51 Panther tanks and IFVs are expected to begin deliveries in the coming years, with the modernization plan running until 2038.