The Italians approved the acquisition of the latest Leopard 2

This information marks the next step towards a crucial increase in the possible of the Italian armored forces utilizing presently 200 tanks of the C1 Ariette ([whose fleet after modernization to the C2 version shrinks to 90/125 pieces](https://defence24.pl/power-armours/wloy-order-modification-its-collet)). The purchased Leopards 2A8IT would be divided into 3 armoured regiments/batalions, complementing the fall-out after withdrawing parts of the C1 Ariete tanks. **The value of the full contract was set at around €8.2 billion and assumes the programme from 2024 to 37.** The deliveries of the first 2A8IT serial Leopards are expected to start in 2027, previously developed and transferred prototype vehicles. The full programme will besides affect Italian manufacture led by Leonardo, which will cooperate with KNDS (with emphasis on KNDS KMW).