Italian armaments leader Leonardo has revealed a next-generation 120mm L55 tank gun, which promises higher muzzle velocity and improved performance compared to previous variants. The advanced L55, developed entirely with company funds, is capable of firing more rounds via a proprietary “self-forcing process.” Weighing 500kg more than its predecessor, the L45, the new cannon offers a 5% increase in muzzle velocity—a critical upgrade for armored warfare.

The L55 is intended predominantly for the upcoming Panther KF51 main battle tank—a joint venture between Leonardo and Rheinmetall for the Italian Army—which will receive 82 of these new guns. German-bound KF51s will be equipped with the Rheinmetall L55A1. Additionally, the L55 can be integrated into Italy’s ARIETE C2 tanks and the AICS-120 combat vehicle. Its design is tailored for tracked platforms, as its significant recoil makes it unsuitable for wheeled vehicles.

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