Spain and Italy announce major military procurement programs

Spain's Council of Ministers has approved 111 million euros for various military acquisitions. The Ministry of Defense will invest approximately 46.26 million euros in 155mm field artillery ammunition to support mechanized and armored brigades and fulfill international commitments, such as the NATO Response Force. Additionally, 22.69 million euros will be allocated for heavy machine guns for peace missions, and 42.58 million euros will be used for Standard SM-2 IIICU missiles to enhance the air defense of the Navy's F-100 frigates. The package also includes over 17.5 million euros for technical and logistical support for MH-60R multi-purpose helicopters.

In Italy, the Ministry of Defense has launched a procurement program for New Main Battle Tanks (NMBT) and specialized vehicles valued at 5.14 billion euros. The program, expected to conclude in 2038, aims to modernize Italy's heavy armored fleet and replace the C1 Ariete. The NMBT is being developed by Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV), a joint venture between Italy's Leonardo and Germany's Rheinmetall. The final production platform is currently under development and is expected to feature improved mobility, protection, and a 120mm smoothbore gun.