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Rheinmetall and Italian defense company Leonardo have established a joint venture focused on tank construction, with both firms holding equal shares.
As reported by Handelsblatt, this collaboration is expected to generate significant orders worth between EUR 23 and 24B, encompassing nearly 1,500 vehicles, including the Panther KF51 battle tank and Lynx infantry fighting vehicle for the Italian Army. CEO Armin Papperger described the order as “huge,” emphasizing its potential for future exports.
Hungary could be a key player in this venture, as noted by Magyar Nemzet, with Rheinmetall’s Zalaegerszeg (western Hungary) facility set to produce the Panther and Lynx models.
Hungary has committed approximately EUR 288M to develop the Panther EVO, which will be designed independently of the Leopard 2 chassis. The Zalaegerszeg plant has already been highlighted as a potential export hub for these armored vehicles, indicating a robust future for military production in Hungary.
As Hungary Today reported earlier, the Zalaegerszeg plant was inaugurated to support Rheinmetall’s production capabilities, showcasing Hungary’s growing role in European defense manufacturing. With seventy engineers dedicated to developing the Panther, the factory signifies a commitment to advancing Hungary’s defense industry.
Rheinmetall’s plant in Zalaegerszeg.
Photo: Hungary Today
The collaboration between Rheinmetall and Leonardo marks a pivotal moment for NATO’s collective defense efforts, as it seeks to enhance military capabilities in Europe.
As Mr. Papperger mentioned, this joint venture not only addresses immediate defense needs but also aims to establish a sustainable European defense system moving forward.
Via Handelsblatt, Magyar Nemzet; Featured Image: honvedelem.hu