According to the most recent Defense Multiannual Planning Document dated September 20, 2024, the Italian government has initiated plans to expand its fleet of F-35 stealth fighters from 90 to 115 aircraft, involving an investment of €7 billion. This initiative aims to replace older aircraft such as the Tornado, AM-X, and AV-8B, as part of a broader strategy to enhance the nation’s air capabilities. Additionally, the plan includes the acquisition of 24 more Eurofighter Typhoon jets and participation in the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP).
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The acquisition
strategy for the F-35s initially followed a three-phase plan outlined in the
2023-2025 Multi-Year Program Document (DPP). Each phase was designed to
incrementally increase the fleet size while ensuring adequate logistical and
infrastructural support. However, in light of evolving geopolitical and
operational needs, a new fourth phase—Phase 3—has been introduced, marking a
critical step in modernizing the fleet with fifth-generation multi-role
aircraft.
Phase 1 involved a €7.06 billion investment for 28 F-35 aircraft, which included funding for engines, equipment, updates, and logistical support up to 2022. This phase also laid the groundwork for essential infrastructure at the Cameri Tri-Valley Hub and various national sites like Amendola, Ghedi, and the aircraft carrier Cavour.
In Phase 2a, the
government allocated €4.2 billion to procure 27 more aircraft, extending
logistical support until 2030. Phase 2b commenced in 2022 with an investment of
€7 billion to acquire 35 additional aircraft, increasing the total fleet to 90
and providing logistical support through 2032. This phase also saw the
activation of operational sites at Grottaglie and Decimomannu.
The newly
established Phase 3 will add 25 more F-35 aircraft, requiring an estimated €7
billion. This phase will cover engines, equipment, updates, and logistical
support until 2035, raising the fleet total to 115 aircraft. Although this
number falls short of the original target of 131 set in 2009, it aligns with
the current operational needs of the Italian Armed Forces. Additionally, a new
operational site will be activated on the Trieste ship, with maintenance costs
for the Cameri European Hub expected to remain comparable to US facilities.
Moreover, the Italian Navy plans to enhance its fleet by acquiring five more F-35 Joint Strike Fighters to replace the AV-8B+ aircraft. This acquisition will include logistical support and the completion of adaptation programs for the Trieste ship, along with infrastructure improvements at the Grottaglie site. The Navy intends to integrate 15 F-35A and 10 F-35B aircraft, totaling €1,866 million. Upgrades at Grottaglie Airport are projected to cost €60 million, while modifications to the Trieste ship will require an additional €50 million.
To achieve Full
Operational Capability for the F-35B aircraft, the Navy is procuring armament
and self-protection systems through a program pending approval by a Ministerial
Decree. Funding for this initiative includes €65 million from the 2024 Budget
Law. The overall funding for the embarked aerotactical component is projected
at €125.04 million, with allocations of €5.3 million in 2024, €3.35 million in
2025, €63.51 million in 2026, and €452.88 million for subsequent periods, with
completion expected by 2037.
By December 31, 2023, the F-35 program had generated significant technological, industrial, and economic benefits for Italy, totaling around €4.7 billion. An additional €1.64 billion supported site activation and the establishment of the Final Assembly and Check-Out (FACO) facility. Notably, the Cameri site has become a crucial reference hub for F-35 fleets across Europe and allied nations.
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