Italy Intends to Acquire 1,000 New Infantry Fighting Vehicles in Approximately EUR 5 Billion

Defense News ,Italy :- The Italian government is set to embark on a significant defense initiative, allocating approximately EUR 5 billion for the acquisition of a tracked platform. This newly acquired vehicle will serve as the foundation for a state-of-the-art infantry fighting vehicle and a range of specialized vehicles catering to the needs of the Italian Army.

Formerly identified by the acronym AICS (Armoured Infantry Combat System), the program has now been rebranded as A2CS (Army Armoured Combat System). The comprehensive plan entails procuring approximately 1,000 armored tracked vehicles to bolster the nation's military capabilities.

Included in this procurement is an upgraded version of the infantry fighting vehicle, poised to replace the currently utilized VCC-80 Dardo. Additionally, the acquisition will feature various specialized variants, including a cutting-edge self-propelled anti-aircraft defense system.

These new vehicles will boast modular and scalable armor, coupled with an open architecture, ensuring adaptability for future upgrades. The integration of advanced communication and command systems will enable seamless collaboration with other vehicles and unmanned systems.

In a strategic move, the Italian government aims to foster collaboration with foreign partners. Among the potential collaborators are KNDS, with whom Rome envisions a partnership in the MGCS program, and the Rheinmetall group, presenting the prospect of the KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle.

Earlier reports also hinted at the Esercito Italiano's interest in the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle, a creation of BAE Systems Hägglunds. This ambitious defense initiative underscores Italy's commitment to modernizing its armed forces and fortifying its defense capabilities through cutting-edge technology and international collaboration.