The Italian Armed Forces have taken delivery of their first four Lynx KF41 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), officially initiating the Army Armoured Combat Systems (A2CS) program. The milestone marks a major step in Italy’s efforts to modernize its heavy ground forces and enhance battlefield effectiveness across future multi-domain operations.
The vehicles were delivered by Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), the joint venture serving as the program’s prime contractor. The initial contract, signed in November, covers 21 Lynx KF41 IFVs, though Italian defense planners have indicated that the program could ultimately expand to around 1,000 platforms as part of a long-term fleet renewal strategy.
Under the current plan, the first five vehicles will be equipped with Rheinmetall’s Lance turret, while the remaining 16 will initially feature Leonardo’s Hitfist 30mm turret. Over time, the entire fleet is expected to transition to the Hitfist configuration, supporting greater commonality and integration with Italy’s domestic defense industrial base.
The four newly delivered IFVs will now undergo testing and operational evaluation at the army’s Multifunctional Testing Center (CEPOLISPE). Italian officials emphasized that the Lynx’s advanced digital architecture and connectivity will reshape how armored units operate in networked combat environments. Alongside the Lynx, the Italian Army is also procuring KF51 Panther main battle tanks through LRMV, with both platforms capable of speeds up to 70 km/h and an operational range of 500 km.
