Italy is forging its way into the European defense sector, which is dominated by the French and Germans, albeit quietly but forcefully. Leonardo, a major business in the sector, has recently announced the €1.7 billion acquisition of Iveco Defence, significantly strengthening its combat vehicle portfolio. With the conflict in Ukraine, this segment has returned to the forefront, demonstrating how ground combat—supported by drones, radar, and electronic systems—remains a cornerstone of modern warfare, alongside other environments (space, cyber, sea, and air), in which Leonardo is also heavily invested. However, Leonardo's targeted expansion in 2025 extends further. From its collaboration with Germany's Rheinmetall to next-generation drones with Turkey's Baykar, to its participation in the GCAP (Global Combat Air Programme) with the United Kingdom and Japan, the Italian industry is forging alliances and strengthening its worldwide position. In the past year, Leonardo has also finalized three cybersecurity agreements and, with the "Bromo" project, intends to establish itself as an important actor in the space industry, along with Thales and Airbus. Its stock market performance follows this pattern, with gains of 80% since the start of the year.
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