In a bold leap for Italy’s air defense, the nation has inked a monumental deal with the Eurofighter consortium and NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) to acquire 24 cutting-edge Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. Signed in Rome, this agreement solidifies the Typhoon’s role as a cornerstone of European defense and provides a massive boost to Italy’s aerospace industry.
Modernizing Italy’s Air Power: Out with the Old, In with the State-of-the-Art
This landmark contract comes as part of the broader €7.4 billion Eurofighter programme, with €690 million already earmarked for initial development. These new Typhoon aircraft will replace the aging Tranche 1 models in the Italian Air Force, introducing cutting-edge technology to keep Italy at the forefront of aerial combat capabilities. Equipped with Brimstone III and Meteor missiles, enhanced sensors, and next-gen connectivity, these jets are designed for seamless integration into NATO’s defense networks.
Leonardo Takes Center Stage: A Giant of Italian Aerospace
The Typhoon fleet will be manufactured at Leonardo’s Caselle facility, underscoring Italy’s crucial role in the Eurofighter programme. Leonardo contributes 36% of the aircraft’s overall value, leading production of key components, including the rear fuselage, left wing, PIRATE infrared tracking system, and advanced CAPTOR-E radar systems. The contract highlights Leonardo’s prowess and positions it as a driving force behind Europe’s defense capabilities.
Leonardo’s CEO, Stefano Pontecorvo, lauded the agreement:
“This contract showcases the extraordinary synergy between industry and institutions, demonstrating the Eurofighter’s continued relevance in modern defense.”
A Network of Excellence: Italy’s Aerospace Ecosystem Benefits
Italy’s aerospace sector stands to reap massive economic rewards. Key players like ELT Group, Avio Aero, and MBDA Italia contribute to critical systems such as self-protection technology, the EJ-200 engine, and weapons integration. This collaboration extends across dozens of Italian suppliers, fueling job creation and technological innovation.
Lorenzo Mariani, Joint Director General of Leonardo, emphasized:
“This programme strengthens national security while advancing technologies and sustaining thousands of highly skilled jobs.”
European Defense Backbone: Typhoon’s Role in NATO Security
The contract comes days after Spain announced its own acquisition of 25 Typhoons, signaling a wave of modernization among NATO allies. With its unmatched stealth, agility, and firepower, the Eurofighter Typhoon remains the backbone of European air defense and a critical component of NATO’s strategic deterrence.
Giancarlo Mezzanatto, Eurofighter CEO, called the deal a “fantastic development,” adding:
“Italy’s commitment demonstrates the enduring strength of the Typhoon programme, ensuring its relevance for decades to come.”
Future-Proof Defense: Ready for Tomorrow’s Challenges
Designed for adaptability, the Eurofighter Typhoon is expected to remain operational well into the 2060s, with upgrades ensuring it evolves alongside emerging threats. Its advanced systems and seamless integration capabilities will keep Italy prepared for the complex challenges of modern warfare.
AVM Simon Ellard (ret.), General Manager of NETMA, summed up the strategic importance:
“This order strengthens Italy’s security and reinforces the Eurofighter’s position as the backbone of Europe’s air defense.”
