Leonardo and Rheinmetall have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a new 50:50 joint venture aimed at developing a European industrial and technological approach in the field of land defence systems.
The agreement aims to develop and sell the new Main Battle Tank (MBT) and the Lynx Platform for the Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS) as part of the Italian Army’s ground systems programs.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “With Leonardo and Rheinmetall, two leading European suppliers of defence technology are joining forces to realise ambitious projects. 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. In doing so, we are addressing the Italian market as well as other partner countries that have a need for modernisation in the field of combat systems.”
Roberto Cingolani, CEO of Leonardo: “Technology and industrial synergies between Leonardo and Rheinmetall are a unique opportunity to develop state-of-the-art Main Battle Tanks and Infantry Vehicles. We consider this agreement a fundamental contribution to the creation of a European defense space.”
The future joint venture, based in Italy, will serve as the Lead System Integrator, prime contractor, and system integrator for both the Italian programs (MBT and AICS). Additionally, it will define the roadmap for participation in the future European Main Ground Combat System (MGCS).
In the MBT and AICS programs, Leonardo will develop and produce mission systems, electronics suites, and weapons integration, based on the requirements of the Italian client. These technologies will also serve as the foundation for the future European MBT (MGCS) as well as new versions intended for international export. Rheinmetall will leverage the newly developed Panther main battle tank and the new Lynx infantry fighting vehicle as the foundational technology for both programs.
Final assembly lines, homologation testing, delivering activities and logistic support will be done in Italy with an Italian workshare of 60%.
The implementation of the MoU signed today will be subject to prior approval by the competent regulatory authorities, including the European Commission and the respective national competition authorities.
