German Rheinmetall, Italian Leonardo announce joint venture to develop land defense systems

By Gokhan Ergocun

ISTANBUL (AA) – Germany's land vehicle producer Rheinmetall and Italian defense firm Leonardo announced signing a joint venture deal to develop the next of land defense systems.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed to develop and commercialize the new type of main battle tank (MBT) and the new Lynx Platform for the "Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS)," according to a joint press release issued on Wednesday.

Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger said the two companies want to set new standards and pave the way for 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," he added.

Leonard CEO Roberto Cingolani, for his part, said: “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 50:50 venture, headquartered in Italy, will serve as the lead system integrator, prime contractor, and system integrator for both Italian programs, as well as define the roadmap for participation in the future European Main Ground Combat System (MGCS).