“Revolutionary Partnership Approved: Rheinmetall and Leonardo Unite for a Bold Future”
Following the declaration issued by the German Federal Cartel Office (Bundeskartell¬amt) on 20 January 2025, granting permission for the establishment of a collaborative initiative between Rheinmetall AG, Düsseldorf, and Leonardo S.p.A., Rome (Italy), Rheinmetall proclaims:
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG: “We are grateful for the resolution from the Federal Cartel Office and deeply appreciate the support and swift handling. Considering the present geopolitical environment, our partnership with Leonardo is incredibly crucial for providing the military with vital assets for their missions – thereby enhancing security throughout Europe. We look forward to receiving the first significant order from our Italian partner in the upcoming months.”
Leonardo and Rheinmetall, two distinguished European frontrunners in defense technology, are joining forces to tackle ambitious projects. The finalization of the joint initiative is expected shortly, pending the acquisition of necessary regulatory approvals.
In October 2024, the organizations completed the contractual arrangement to establish the joint venture in Rome.
Consequently, Rheinmetall AG and Leonardo S.p.A. will each hold an equal 50% interest in the newly formed Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), based in Rome with an operational hub in La Spezia.
The primary objective of the joint endeavor is the industrial development and subsequent promotion of the upcoming Italian Main Battle Tank (MBT), in addition to the cutting-edge Lynx platform for the Armoured Infantry Combat System (AICS) initiative, an integral component of the Italian Army’s land systems strategy. The design and production of other vehicles within this lineup, encompassing recovery, engineering, and bridge-laying units, are also planned.
The Panther KF51, crafted by Rheinmetall, will act as the foundation for the new main battle tank, intended to replace the Ariete in the Italian Army. The Italian AICS initiative aims to procure over 1,000 armored combat systems, depending on Rheinmetall’s Lynx infantry fighting vehicle as the technological cornerstone.
