Italy to receive seven AAVs under $30.6M US FMS package

June 11, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The US Department of State has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Italy worth an estimated $30.6 million, covering seven assault amphibious vehicles (AAVs) sourced from US Marine Corps stock, along with associated support equipment and logistics services.

The proposed package includes three Assault Amphibious Vehicles in the command variant (AAVC-7A1) and four recovery variants (AAVR-7A1).

In addition to the vehicles, the deal covers support equipment, radar-scattering camouflage netting kits, unclassified technical manuals, and broader program and logistics support elements.

The equipment will be drawn from existing US Marine Corps stock, indicating a transfer of surplus platforms rather than new production.

According to the US State Department, the proposed sale aligns with US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening a NATO ally and supporting Italy’s role in regional stability and expeditionary operations.

The AAVs are intended to enhance Italy’s amphibious and expeditionary capabilities, improving operational readiness against current and future regional threats.

The US government further assessed that the transfer will not alter the basic military balance in the region and will have no adverse impact on US defense readiness.

To remind, in January 2026, the US awarded BAE Systems a contract for the production of 30 additional amphibious combat vehicles.