A significant contract has been awarded to the Leonardo-Rheinmetall joint venture, marking a new chapter for the Italian Army as it prepares to incorporate advanced infantry fighting vehicles into its ranks. The agreement involves the supply of 21 Lynx KF-41 vehicles, which is the first delivery order stemming from the Army Armoured Combat System (A2CS) program, a comprehensive initiative aimed at procuring approximately 1,000 vehicles.
Among the initial batch, five of the Lynx KF-41 units will be outfitted with Rheinmetall’s state-of-the-art Lance turret, while 16 vehicles will be equipped with Leonardo’s renowned Hitfist 30mm system. The contract outlines a pathway for upgrading the entire fleet to the Hitfist configuration, alongside options for acquiring an additional 30 vehicles in the future. Furthermore, the agreement includes the provision of training and simulation systems designed to enhance crew readiness and operational efficiency.
The first of these advanced vehicles is expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. David Hoeder, executive chairman of the Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles Joint Venture, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating that it serves as a crucial milestone following the establishment of the joint venture. He noted, “It brings the two companies, as well as two of Europe’s largest countries closer together. Cooperation is not optional anymore – it is the very essence of our European strategic sovereignty.”
In terms of operational execution, approximately 60 percent of the activities related to this project, including aspects such as integration, qualification testing, delivery, and logistical support, will take place in Italy. Additionally, parts of the production and development processes will be conducted locally, further strengthening the partnership.
The Lynx KF-41, a larger version of the previously introduced KF31 infantry fighting vehicle, showcases a modular design that features a separate base drive module and interchangeable mission modules. This flexibility enables rapid reconfiguration to address a variety of operational roles effectively. With a combat weight of around 50 tonnes, the KF-41 is designed to accommodate a crew of three alongside eight additional passengers.
Powered by an impressive 850-kilowatt (1,140-horsepower) engine, it can achieve a top speed of 65 kilometers per hour (40 miles per hour). In its primary configuration, the KF-41 is armed with the Lance 2.0 turret, which includes a 35mm Wotan automatic cannon and two modular mission pods for various subsystems, such as Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Equipped with advanced active, passive, and reactive protection systems, the Lynx KF-41 is designed to effectively counter threats posed by rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank guided missiles. Its modular architecture allows for configuration across a broad spectrum of missions, encompassing roles such as infantry fighting, command and control, armored personnel transport, reconnaissance, medical evacuation, and repair and recovery operations. This multi-faceted capability positions the Lynx KF-41 as a versatile asset for modern military operations.
