Hall & Watts Defence Optics, a leader in artillery sighting systems, in partnership with ARIS (Applicazioni Rielaborazioni Impianti Speciali), a renowned Italian company specializing in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of special vehicles and equipment, has been selected by the Italian Ministry of Defence (MOD) to supply up to 54 artillery sighting systems to the Land Forces’ FH70 155mm MLU program.

As 21st-century artillery platforms increasingly adopt advanced digital navigation and fire control systems, ensuring a robust manual backup has become essential for operational continuity. The Italian MOD recognizes this critical need, ensuring their FH70 howitzers are equipped with reliable manual artillery sighting systems as a fail-safe to complement their new digital technologies. 

The collaboration between Hall & Watts and ARIS combines decades of expertise in manual sighting systems with ARIS’s extensive experience in vehicle and system upgrades for defense applications. Together, they offer the Italian MOD a comprehensive solution that ensures precision, reliability, and seamless integration with the upgraded artillery platforms. 

“We are thrilled to collaborate with ARIS in supporting the Italian Army’s modernization efforts,” said Edward Hoskins, Managing Director of Hall & Watts Defence Optics. “Our sighting systems, combined with ARIS’s integration expertise, will ensure the FH70 howitzers maintain operational readiness, even in the most challenging scenarios.” 

ARIS’s MD G.Bellezza added: “Partnering with Hall & Watts on this critical project exemplifies how innovative collaboration can deliver unmatched solutions to modern defense challenges. Together, we are proud to support the Italian MOD’s vision for a modern, resilient artillery force.” 

The Italian MOD’s upgrade of their FH70 platforms reflects their commitment to integrating cutting-edge digital systems while ensuring operational safeguards through reliable manual systems. This forward-thinking approach enhances their artillery units’ effectiveness and guarantees mission success in diverse combat scenarios. 

About Hall & Watts Defence Optics
Hall & Watts Defence Optics has been a manufacturing military optics and sighting systems for over 50 years. The company’s products are trusted by armed forces worldwide for their accuracy, reliability, and adaptability in demanding operational environments. 

About ARIS
Founded in 1946, ARIS (Applicazioni Rielaborazioni Impianti Speciali) specializes in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of special vehicles and equipment, system upgrades, and vehicle fittings for both military and civil applications. With a strong presence in the defense sector, ARIS is a trusted partner of the Italian Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Interior.