Italy has received the first four KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, formally initiating the Italian Army’s A2CS armored modernization program.
Delivered by Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles, the KF41s are part of an initial order for 21 vehicles signed in November, with long-term plans that could see the acquisition of roughly 1,000 Lynx platforms. The first five vehicles will be fitted with Rheinmetall’s Lance turret, while the remaining 16 will be equipped with Leonardo’s Hitfist 30 mm turret, which is set to become the standard configuration across the fleet.
The initial four vehicles will now enter a testing and evaluation phase at the Army’s CEPOLISPE test center to confirm their readiness for operational deployment. According to Italian defense officials, the Lynx’s advanced digital architecture and networked systems are expected to significantly enhance the Army’s effectiveness in multi-domain operations.
Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger emphasized that Lynx represents a new generation of combat vehicles, delivering improved protection, adaptability, and combat effectiveness while reinforcing European cooperation in armored systems.
In parallel, the Italian Army is also acquiring KF51 Panther main battle tanks from the LRMV joint venture as part of its heavy force renewal program. Both the Lynx IFV and Panther MBT offer top speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour and an operational range of about 500 kilometers.
