Italy's new heavy division: A game changer for NATO forces

The Italians intend to create a heavy division within five years, comprised of three brigades: the armored "Ariete," the mechanized Bersaglieri "Garibaldi," and the armored grenadiers "Grantieri di Sardegna." The project entails an expenditure of 16 billion euros for 1,050 vehicles in 16 variants.

It's worth noting that during the Cold War, the armored core of NATO’s European forces was the Bundeswehr, which is now a mere shadow of what it was a few decades ago. Now, Italy has announced a very ambitious plan to significantly strengthen NATO’s potential, alongside Poland, Finland, Sweden, and France.

The Italians plan to acquire the KF41 Lynx platform, which, beyond the classic infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) variant, would also be used as command vehicles, 120 mm mortar carriers, ammunition vehicles, as well as rocket-equipped vehicles or tank destroyers with 120 mm guns, and mobile air defense and anti-drone platforms.

Overall, there is talk of up to 16 variants, but the complexity of the current battlefield doesn’t allow for simplifications. Additionally, the plan includes upgrading the support units with modernized C2 Ariete tanks and PzH-2000 self-propelled howitzers.

The KF41 Lynx is a creation of Rheinmetall, developed based on knowledge gained from creating the SPz Puma. The KF41 Lynx was developed as a cheaper export option for a unique design created for the needs of the Bundeswehr in collaboration with KMW. Recently, the first KF41 was delivered to Ukraine.

However, the difference lies in relying on currently available technologies, which allowed for cost reduction compared to the Puma, where most elements had to be designed from scratch. The Lynx in the KF31 version, adapted to carry six dismounted soldiers, was first shown at Eurosatory 2016. Two years later, the longer KF41 Lynx version capable of transporting eight dismounted soldiers alongside three crew members was showcased.

This vehicle stands out for its modular design, which focuses on protecting the crew and dismounted soldiers. Its weight of 55 tons (when additional armor is applied) demonstrates this. Although the exact level of resistance is not detailed, its heavy weight suggests a very high level of protection, potentially surpassing even the newer versions of the CV90. It is possible that even the side armor can withstand fire from 30 mm automatic cannons and PG-7VL grenades.

Moreover, the KF31/41 Lynx’s reinforced upper armor is designed to withstand attacks from anti-tank bomblets in cluster munitions. Additionally, there is an option for an active protection system that confuses the guidance systems of some projectiles or physically destroys incoming objects.

The variant’s armament includes a manned or unmanned Lance turret equipped with a 30 mm or 35 mm automatic cannon, with an effective range of up to 2 miles, depending on the buyer's decision. There is also a launcher for two Spike-LR anti-tank missiles, with a range of 2.5 miles, which are "fire-and-forget" type missiles. This allows for the immediate concealment of the Lynx after firing, which is not possible with the M2A2 Bradley using older TOW-2B missiles.

Specific versions can be equipped depending on the buyer's preferences, thanks to its modular design. It is conceivable that the 120 mm gun variant might integrate a complete turret borrowed from the Centauro II, and the anti-aircraft model may be equipped with the Skyranger. If the A2CS program concludes, NATO’s European component will gain a formidable force that any potential adversary will have to consider. Moreover, the order will substantially boost the European defense industry, which has faced challenges in recent decades.