System Of A Down are set to reform for a European Tour, due to take place next year.

The tour includes a headline spot at next year’s Download Festival, as well as dates in Italy, Germany and France.

The European Tour will mark the band’s return after a five-year hiatus.

“We are excited to announce that System will be playing some dates together in 2011,” the band said.

We also want to thank you for your loyalty and support, not only to System Of A Down, but to all of our solo efforts as well. We have no master plan of sorts – we are playing these shows simply because we want to play together again as a band and for you, our amazing fans.”

Tickets go on sale on Wednesday (December 1) at 9am.

System Of A Down’s European Tour dates are:

• Italy, Milan, Milan Fiera Arena – June 2
• Germany, Nurnberg, Rock im Park - 4
• Germany, Nurburgring, Rock am Ring - 5
• France, Paris, Omnisports de Bercy - 6
• Switzerland, Interlaken, Greenfield Festival – 9
• UK, Castle Donington, Download Festival - 11
• Austria, Nickelsdorf, Novarock - 13
• Germany, Berlin, Wuhlheide - 15
• Sweden, Gothenburg, Metaltown Festival - 17
• Finland, Turku, Provinssirock - 19

(by Holly Frith)