Italy Is Negotiating to Buy Leopard 2 Tanks from Germany

Italy is reportedly negotiating the purchase of a new Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank (MBT) from Germany.

This news was first reported by the Italian Defense Magazine RID (Rivista Italiana Difesa) which mentioned that Italy would buy Leopard tanks in 2A7 or 2A8 configurations.

Still according to Rivista Italiana Difesa, this deal has the potential to reach 4-6 billion euros or the equivalent of 4.3-6.5 billion dollars.

An Italian defense source said that they have plans to increase capabilities by adding 250 new MBTs.

Half of that or 125 units can be filled by the upgraded C1 Ariete MBT upgrade.

The rest will be filled by the Leopard 2A7 or 2A8.

The acquisition of the new Leopard 2 tanks will enhance Italy's military capabilities and interoperability with other NATO allies.

Currently the Italian Army operates 200 units of the C1 Ariete MBT, a domestic tank jointly developed by the Oto Melara and IVECO companies.