Italian Military Reconnaissance Vehicles: New Procurement Plans
The Italian Ministry of Defence has officially initiated a call for proposals aimed at procuring a new ground vehicle tailored for military reconnaissance operations. This announcement, detailed in a recent contract notice, highlights the intention to acquire up to 600 vehicles at an estimated budget of 140 million euros, approximately 158 million dollars. The comprehensive procurement value could exceed 300 million euros, or around 338 million dollars, factoring in additional equipment and support services. Following the selection process, successful proposals will move into a second phase for further analysis and evaluation.
Although a specific timeline for the development, testing, or deployment of these new reconnaissance vehicles has not been released, the initiative marks a significant step in modernizing Italy’s military capabilities. The acquisition not only aims to enhance the operational efficiency of the Italian Armed Forces but also reflects a broader strategy to maintain technological advancement in defense operations.
Puma Replacement?
Currently, the Italian Army relies on 180 VBL Puma 4×4 armored reconnaissance vehicles, which have been in service since their procurement from Iveco beginning in 2003. Each of these 4×4 units accommodates a crew of four. In addition to this, the service operates over 380 Puma 6×6 vehicles, which expand the capacity to six soldiers plus the driver. The announcement of new military vehicle procurements is leading to speculation regarding the potential replacement of the aging Puma fleet.
Earlier this year, sightings of Italian-made Puma vehicles in action with the Ukrainian military fueled rumors about their impending retirement. Despite these observations, no official confirmation of any transfer has been made. This situation strengthens the notion that Italy is preparing to phase out the Puma platform to introduce a more advanced and adaptable reconnaissance vehicle, highlighting a shift toward improved military assets.
Other Investments in Military Vehicles
In a parallel development, Italy has announced ambitious plans to expand its military vehicle capabilities beyond reconnaissance units. The Italian government has set forth intentions to acquire more than 1,000 KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, coupled with a procurement plan for up to 380 KF51 Panther main battle tanks from Rheinmetall. This significant investment is projected to reach approximately 16 billion euros, or 18 billion dollars, for the Lynx systems, and around 10 billion euros, or 11.3 billion dollars, for the Panthers.
Additionally, the Ministry of Defence has forged a contract with the Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium to deliver 76 medium armored combat vehicles to the Italian Army. Furthermore, in an announcement made in October 2024, Italy and Germany unveiled a collaborative venture involving Leonardo and Rheinmetall to co-develop a new generation of tanks based on the Panther platform. This joint initiative underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations in advancing military technology and capability.
