Upcoming Trade Shows in Italy for Defense

Italy’s defense industry, already a sizeable force in Europe, is on the fast trajectory to grow as a direct response to geopolitical shifts and escalating global tensions. The defense budget for 2023 sat at $30.3 billion. However, experts predict the number will increase between 2024 and 2028. As with other countries, the primary factor behind this surge in defense spending is the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has exposed vulnerabilities in the West's defense-industrial capacity in addition to heightening European tensions. Now Italy has undertaken the task of rapid modernization and the launch of new platforms across all domains. The Army is set to acquire new and enhanced equipment for its heavy mechanized brigades, while multiple naval vessels are under construction. Simultaneously, the Air Force is actively inducting the F-35 and participating in the next-generation Tempest program. The Russia-Ukraine war has not only reshaped Europe's security landscape but has also compelled Italy to donate substantial volumes of arms and equipment to Ukraine. Additionally, Italy has increased its contributions to NATO forward deployment and initiated a comprehensive revision of its overall defense posture in anticipation of a potential long-term confrontation with Russia. By and large, Italy remains in alignment with NATO principles. What this means is maintaining an active-duty volunteer force with high-tech mechanized maneuver formations. The country maintains specialized units, including paratroopers, mountain ('Alpini') and amphibious roles – versatility being a key component of Italy’s defense strategy. Italy’s navy, equipped with aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships and replenishment vessels, demonstrates its unique capabilities in the context of Europe. Given its geographical position and access to waterways, Italy will continue to play a strategic role in geopolitics as a member of both EU and NATO. The upcoming years will be busy for its defense sector as Italy must maintain readiness and resilience at all times.