Italy has officially launched its Army Armoured Combat Systems (A2CS) program following the delivery of the first four Lynx KF41 infantry fighting vehicles to the Italian Army. The handover represents a key milestone in the country’s broader push to modernize its armored forces and strengthen interoperability within European defense frameworks.
The vehicles were supplied by Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles, a joint venture between the two defense giants that leads the A2CS program. An initial agreement signed in late 2024 calls for the delivery of 21 Lynx KF41 IFVs, with long-term plans potentially scaling the fleet to nearly 1,000 vehicles to replace aging armored platforms.
According to program details, the first batch of Lynx IFVs will be delivered with Rheinmetall’s Lance turret, while subsequent vehicles will be fitted with Leonardo’s Hitfist 30mm weapon system. Although two turret variants are being fielded during early phases, all vehicles are eventually expected to adopt the Hitfist configuration to streamline logistics and maintenance.
The four IFVs now enter evaluation trials at CEPOLISPE, where the army will assess performance, survivability, and integration into network-centric operations. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted the Lynx as a next-generation combat vehicle offering high levels of protection, scalability, and digital connectivity, while reinforcing European defense cooperation. In parallel, Italy is acquiring the KF51 Panther main battle tank, with both platforms offering a 70 km/h top speed and 500 km operational range.
