German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall and Italian defense company Leonardo are planning a 50:50 partnership in Italy to develop and commercialize armored vehicles for the European market.
The plan, outlined in a memorandum of understanding that the two companies signed on Wednesday, focuses on the Italian Army’s ground systems programs on a new main battle tank and a new Lynx platform for armored infantry combat systems. The MOU also envisions the joint venture following through on a European main ground combat system.
According to Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, the two companies seek to address the Italian market and European allies’ need for modern combat systems. “Together, we want to set new standards and open the door to a new generation of state-of-the-art combat vehicles in and for Europe,” he said.
Roberto Cingolani, Leonardo’s CEO, sees the “unique opportunity” presented by such a collaboration between the company and Rheinmetall. “We consider this agreement a fundamental contribution to the creation of a European defense space,” he said.