Leonardo, Italy’s leading defense manufacturer, has launched its advanced 120mm L55 tank gun, engineered to deliver improved range and ballistic performance through a higher muzzle velocity. Designed as an upgrade to the earlier L44 and L45 variants, the new L55 integrates innovations such as a longer barrel and a reinforced structure to endure high-stress firing scenarios.
One of the standout features of the new system is its “self-forcing process,” which allows the gun to sustain a higher rate of fire. As per Rivista Italiana Difesa, this makes the L55 more efficient in sustained combat situations. The weapon is notably 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds) heavier than its L45 predecessor and produces 5% greater muzzle velocity, as reported by the European Defence Review.
The L55 is being developed for the Panther KF51 main battle tank, part of a joint Leonardo-Rheinmetall venture. The Italian Army is set to receive 82 of these tanks fitted with Leonardo’s gun, while 50 units destined for the German Army will carry the Rheinmetall L55A1 version.
The gun’s use isn’t limited to the KF51. It is also compatible with Italy’s ARIETE C2 and the AICS-120 combat vehicle, the Italian iteration of the Lynx KF41. Due to its substantial recoil, the L55 is exclusively mounted on tracked armored platforms.
