Upcoming Trade Shows in Italy for Security

Italy has set its sights on the future of defense with a groundbreaking deal signed by the Ministry of Defense and leading defense firms - Leonardo, Elettronica, Avio Aero and MBDA Italia. The collaboration is geared towards the development of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which is a strategic initiative aimed at creating a cutting-edge sixth-generation fighter. Italy joins forces with the UK and Japan in this ambitious venture and the deadline for the grand unveiling is the year 2035. The country’s participation in this project ups the profile of Italy’s security industry in front of global defense forces. The contract outlines the initial phase, focusing on the concept and assessment phase and related demonstration activities. While the deal’s value remains undisclosed, the participating companies have expressed that they will invest significant resources in its completion. The partnership goes beyond defense giants and involves universities, research centers, small enterprises and startups –all under the guidance of the Ministry of Defense. The GCAP program evolved from the UK-led Tempest initiative, where Japan became a partner in December. Italy’s defense budget for 2022 has allocated €220 million ($239 million) for the Tempest program, anticipating a total expenditure of €3.8 billion by the mid-2030s. In a joint statement, the companies reveal Italy's significant investment commitment for the GCAP program, earmarking €6 billion for research and development. Leonardo, a key player, stands out as a global industrial group with expertise and acumen in Aerospace, Defence & Security. The company's strategic plan, ""Be Tomorrow - Leonardo 2030,"" outlines ambitious growth strategies, including reinforcing core activities, evolving products and services, and fostering technological innovation. As Italy propels itself into the forefront of defense innovation, the GCAP program represents a pivotal step, backed by substantial investments.