Italian Army Welcomes Lynx KF41 Combat Vehicles: A Milestone in the A2CS Program

On January 27, 2026, the Italian Army received its first four Lynx KF41 Combat Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicles (AIFVs) as part of the A2CS (Army Armoured Combat Systems) initiative. The delivery ceremony occurred at Montelibretti, the site of the Italian Army Multifunctional Experimentation Centre.

Key Attendees and Strategic Implications

The high-profile event was graced by:

• Guido Crosetto, Minister of Defence
• Gen. Luciano Portolano, Chief of Defence
• Lt. Gen. Carmine Masiello, Chief of Staff of the Army
• Other notable military and civilian dignitaries, including Roberto Cingolani, CEO of Leonardo, and Björn Bernhard, Head of Rheinmetall’s Vehicle System Division.

The delivery underscores a strategic partnership between Leonardo and Rheinmetall, initially announced in February 2025, aimed at modernizing the Italian Army’s heavy brigades. This plan includes a focus on both the Lynx KF41 and the next-generation main battle tank, derived from the Panther platform.

Contractual Developments and Future Vehicles

In November 2025, the joint venture LRMV (Leonardo-Rheinmetall Vehicle) secured a contract with the Land Armaments Directorate (TERRARM) for the production of 21 A2CS Combat “as is” vehicles. The inaugural delivery consists of four units, configured to match the specifications of the Hungarian Army, with an additional unit set to follow shortly.

• Configuration Details:
  • Equipped with the Rheinmetall Lance turret already in use by Hungary.
  • Each unit is finished in the Italian Army’s distinct three-color camouflage scheme.

The Italian Army is prioritizing the operationalization of the Lynx KF41 to facilitate immediate training and technical acclimatization, thereby diminishing the lag time between design concepts and practical deployment.

Future Fleet and Operational Phases

Following the initial delivery, the next set of vehicles will introduce the A2CS UOR configuration, featuring the HITFIST 30 NG two-man turret. This turret is armed with Leonardo’s 30×173 mm X-Gun and will be retrofitted to the first five units upon completion of the contract.

• Anticipated Enhancements:
  • A total of 30 additional vehicles may soon follow, allowing for a full battalion setup.
  • These will provide comprehensive opportunities for tactical evaluation, performance optimization, and modifications, especially concerning ergonomics.

Turret Features and Sensor Technology

The HITFIST turret unveiled at Montelibretti is not only pivotal for the Lynx KF41 but will also be integrated with the next iteration of the VBM 30 NG, enhancing the existing Freccia fleet.

Key Specifications:

• Sensors:
  • LOTHAR SD gunner sight
  • Janus D-L commander’s panoramic sight
• Protection:
  • Basic Level 2 ballistic protection; provisions for add-on armor are in place.

Communication Capabilities

A suite of antennas installed atop the turret bolsters communication effectiveness, allowing for multi-domain operational capabilities:

• Configuration:
  • VHF whip antenna at the rear
  • Multiple satellite and UHF operational antennas, including an EVO-A-TACSAT and EVO-A-UTAC Shadow.

Lt. Gen. Carmine Masiello emphasized the transformative nature of this system, highlighting that it signifies a paradigm shift in the Italian Army’s operational methodologies.

Future Innovations

Looking ahead, Leonardo is progressing towards developing an unmanned variant of the HITFIST turret, with prototypes expected by 2027. The decision regarding the final version—manned or unmanned—is pending, but it may also cater to amphibious capabilities required by the Navy.

Long-Term Projections

The comprehensive prototype of the A2CS, featuring an upgraded Vector V8 engine model, is projected for completion by 2028, with initial mass production slated for 2029. The strategic vision encompasses acquiring over 1,000 platforms across sixteen distinct variants, designed to meet the evolving demands of the Italian Army.

• Phase Overview:
  • Development of various configurations, including combat, mortar carrier, CASEVAC, scout, and command post vehicles.
  • All prototypes are expected to be certified by 2029, marking the commencement of serial production in 2030.

In summary, the introduction of the Lynx KF41 “as is” vehicles sets a foundational step in the Army’s comprehensive modernization efforts. Enhanced operational capabilities and the transition to advanced AIFVs will play a vital role in fortifying Italy’s defense posture and operational readiness in the coming decades.

Photos courtesy of Leonardo, E. Magnani, and L. Peruzzi.