What's Happening?
Italy's defense company Leonardo has entered into an agreement with KNDS Deutschland to collaborate on the development of a new self-propelled howitzer. This project will integrate a German artillery module with an Italian chassis. The decision comes
shortly after Leonardo unveiled its own artillery system, the RH1-155/52 HITFIRE turret, which features full automation and a reduced crew requirement. Despite this recent development, Leonardo has opted to pursue the German RCH-155 system, potentially due to a lack of interest from the Italian Ministry of Defense in the HITFIRE system. The collaboration aims to provide the Italian army with an optimal artillery solution, utilizing the Freccia wheeled combat vehicle chassis by Iveco, which Leonardo acquired earlier this year.
Why It's Important?
This collaboration between Italy and Germany signifies a strategic shift in Italy's defense procurement strategy, potentially prioritizing proven international systems over domestic developments. The decision to partner with KNDS Deutschland could enhance Italy's military capabilities by leveraging advanced German technology, while also streamlining costs and development time. For Germany, this partnership strengthens its defense industry ties within Europe and expands the market for its military technology. The move may also reflect broader European defense integration efforts, as countries seek to optimize resources and capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.
What's Next?
The joint project is expected to progress with the integration of the RCH-155 artillery module onto the Freccia chassis, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026 or early 2027. The Italian Ministry of Defense's response to this collaboration will be crucial, as it may influence future procurement decisions and defense policy. Additionally, the success of this project could lead to further collaborations between European defense companies, potentially setting a precedent for future joint military developments.
