The Italian Ministry of Defence has awarded a contract, valued at €159m, to Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium (CIO) for the acquisition of the first ten new Centauro II armoured vehicles.
Established in 1985, the consortium is equally owned by Iveco Defence Vehicles and Leonardo.
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The scope of the contract also includes the delivery of spares and logistic support to Italy.
The acquisition of the ten new Centauro II armoured vehicles is the first tranche out of a total 136 units.
The total value of the contract awarded to Leonardo amounts to approximately €92m.
Under the deal, the company will be responsible for the development and integration of the complete turret defence system, including the observation, targeting and communications systems.
The Centauro II armoured vehicle offers enhanced power, situational awareness, mobility, ergonomics, shooting behaviour and communications when compared to the Centauro I vehicle.
The upgraded features of the vehicle help provide maximum protection for the crew members.
Serving as the latest-generation wheeled armoured vehicle, the Centauro II can operate in a wide range of scenarios, from national security missions to peacekeeping and support operations and in other operational theatres in which the Armed Forces need to operate.
Fitted with advanced ATTILA II panoramic periscope and the Lothar SD gunner system, the turret of the vehicle features six radios in addition to upgraded command and control system (SICCONA).
This ensures maximum interoperability and availability of information in operation.
