As Europe responds to the Russian invasion of Ukraine with a wave of military modernization, Italy is making significant strides to enhance its defense capabilities. The Italian government has placed an order for two dozen new Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets and signed a contract to develop new battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). These efforts signal Italy’s commitment to strengthening its military forces amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Italy has reportedly approved the purchase of 24 Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets. Military analyst Giovanni Martinelli and Janes journalist Gareth Jennings highlighted the Ministerial Decree of Approval of the Program (Government Act No. 176) as evidence of this purchase. While the Italian government has not provided specific details, the aircraft is speculated to be a Tranche 4 or 5 variant. A local Italian defense magazine claimed that the new Eurofighter Typhoons would likely replace the outdated Tranche 1 Eurofighters still operated by the Italian Air Force, which is also considering the decommissioning of its Panavia Tornado Interdiction Strike (IDS) and Tornado Electronic Combat Reconnaissance (ECR) aircraft.
In May 2024, Eurofighter Consortium partner BAE Systems confirmed the potential sale, projecting it would expand Italy’s current Eurofighter inventory of 94 operational aircraft. Janes reported that the Italian government would approve the purchase in the third quarter of 2024.
David Hulme, Typhoon product strategy director and Eurofighter project director at BAE Systems, mentioned Italy’s plans for additional core aircraft, anticipating a parliamentary process over the summer to finalize the purchase. If confirmed, Italy will join Germany and Spain in bolstering their Eurofighter fleets, providing a bridge until the induction of next-generation aircraft under the Global Combat Air Program.
European Context and Military Implications
The Italian purchase is part of a broader European trend. In September 2023, Spain initiated the Halcon II follow-on buy of the Eurofighter Typhoon, adding to the 20 ordered in 2022. Speculation suggests a potential Halcon III purchase could follow. Similarly, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced plans to buy 20 more Eurofighters, in addition to the 38 already ordered, by the end of the current legislative session in autumn 2025.
These purchases align with an economic impact study released by the Eurofighter consortium in April, which projected possible sales of up to 287 new aircraft. The report highlighted the Eurofighter Typhoon’s potential for further exports and partnerships, emphasizing its advanced swing-role capabilities. Currently, nine countries—Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, Austria, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar—operate the Eurofighter.
The Eurofighter Typhoon, a multirole, supersonic, canard delta wing, twin-engine fighter, is produced by a consortium comprising Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. Alongside the fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter, it forms the backbone of the Italian Air Force, frequently participating in NATO missions. For instance, in March 2023, Italian Eurofighter jets based at Poland’s Malbork air base were scrambled twice in 24 hours to intercept Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea.
In addition to strengthening its air fleet, Italy is also modernizing its land-based systems. Rheinmetall, a German company, and Leonardo, an Italian manufacturer, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a 50-50 partnership to develop new Main Battle Tanks (MBT) and Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) for the Italian Army.
According to Rheinmetall, the future joint venture will be headquartered in Italy and act as the “lead system integrator, prime contractor, and system integrator” for both Italian efforts. Subject to approval by regulatory agencies such as the European Commission and national competition authorities, the JV will define the roadmap for participation in the upcoming European Main Ground Combat System (MGCS).
Leonardo will be responsible for developing and producing mission systems, electronics suites, and weapons integration for both Italian projects, meeting the requests of Italian customers. This decision comes shortly after Italy terminated its joint development of the Leopard 2A8 MBT with the Franco-German KNDS due to configuration disagreements. With Leopards out of the picture, reports suggest Italy may consider developing an Italianized Panther KF51, more receptive to Italian input as it is still in early development stages.
Implications for European Defense and NATO
Italy’s rapid formation of this partnership and its decision to purchase additional Eurofighter Typhoons reflect a swift and strategic response to modernizing its military capabilities. These moves are driven by the urgency to enhance defense readiness in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Italian government’s actions indicate a clear recognition of the evolving security landscape in Europe and a commitment to maintaining robust and technologically advanced military forces.
Italy’s military modernization efforts are part of a broader trend across Europe, reflecting the continent’s collective response to increased security threats from Russia. The purchase of new Eurofighter Typhoons and the development of advanced land-based systems demonstrate a commitment to enhancing both aerial and ground capabilities. This section delves into the strategic implications of Italy’s actions for European defense and NATO.
The Italian Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoons play a crucial role in NATO’s air policing missions, particularly in Eastern Europe. The deployment of Italian jets to Poland for intercepting Russian aircraft underscores Italy’s contribution to NATO’s deterrence and defense posture. By replacing aging aircraft with new, more advanced Eurofighters, Italy enhances its ability to respond to potential threats, thereby strengthening NATO’s eastern flank.
Moreover, the interoperability of Eurofighter Typhoons among NATO allies, such as Germany and Spain, facilitates coordinated defense efforts. The increased number of these aircraft in European air forces enhances collective air power, allowing for more effective joint operations and rapid deployment in crisis situations.
The decision to purchase additional Eurofighter Typhoons also has significant economic and industrial implications. The Eurofighter program supports a substantial number of jobs across Europe and involves a complex supply chain. Italy’s commitment to expanding its Eurofighter fleet contributes to the sustainability of the European defense industry, promoting technological innovation and economic growth.
The collaboration between Rheinmetall and Leonardo on new MBTs and IFVs similarly underscores the importance of cross-border defense industrial partnerships. By pooling resources and expertise, these companies can develop cutting-edge land systems that meet the needs of modern warfare. The joint venture not only benefits the Italian and German defense industries but also strengthens the European defense industrial base as a whole.
Strategic Autonomy and European Defense
Italy’s focus on modernizing its land-based systems addresses the need for advanced ground combat capabilities. The development of new MBTs and IFVs ensures that the Italian Army is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enhancing its operational effectiveness in various conflict scenarios.
The joint venture’s role in the European Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) project highlights Italy’s commitment to contributing to a unified European defense strategy. The MGCS aims to develop a next-generation tank that can replace aging fleets across Europe, promoting standardization and interoperability among European armies. Italy’s participation in this project signifies its dedication to collective defense initiatives and its willingness to invest in long-term military capabilities.
Italy’s actions also align with broader efforts to achieve greater strategic autonomy in European defense. By investing in indigenous defense projects and fostering European partnerships, Italy reduces its reliance on external suppliers and enhances its ability to independently address security challenges.
The development of the Panther KF51, tailored to Italian requirements, exemplifies this approach. Italy’s decision to move away from the joint Leopard 2A8 MBT project and pursue its own design reflects a desire to maintain control over its defense capabilities and ensure they meet national needs. This approach contributes to a more resilient and self-sufficient European defense framework.
Deterrence and Readiness
Ultimately, Italy’s military modernization efforts are driven by the need to enhance deterrence and readiness in the face of evolving security threats. The acquisition of advanced fighter jets and the development of new land systems signal a proactive stance in addressing potential conflicts. By investing in cutting-edge technology and maintaining a robust military force, Italy enhances its deterrence capabilities, reducing the likelihood of aggression from adversaries.
These efforts also underscore Italy’s commitment to its NATO obligations. As a key member of the alliance, Italy’s contributions to collective defense are vital for maintaining regional stability. The modernization of its military forces ensures that Italy can effectively fulfill its role within NATO, supporting the alliance’s mission to safeguard the security of its member states.
Italy’s decision to purchase 24 new Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets and develop new battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles represents a significant step in its military modernization efforts. These actions are part of a broader European trend driven by the need to respond to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and enhance defense capabilities.
The acquisition of advanced Eurofighter Typhoons strengthens Italy’s air force, ensuring it can effectively participate in NATO missions and respond to potential threats. The joint venture between Rheinmetall and Leonardo for developing new MBTs and IFVs underscores Italy’s commitment to modernizing its land-based systems and contributing to a unified European defense strategy.
Strategically, these efforts enhance NATO’s eastern flank, promote economic growth within the European defense industry, and contribute to Europe’s strategic autonomy. Italy’s proactive approach to military modernization demonstrates its commitment to maintaining robust and technologically advanced military forces, ensuring readiness and deterrence in an evolving security landscape.
As Europe continues to navigate complex geopolitical challenges, Italy’s actions serve as a model for other nations seeking to enhance their defense capabilities and contribute to collective security. Through investment in cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships, Italy is well-positioned to play a crucial role in ensuring regional stability and addressing emerging threats.
