2024-11-01 12:57:00
Geopolitical tensions, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the possibility of political tsunamis in the United States and the commitment of NATO countries to increase military spending to 2% of GDP have once again triggered the situation Italian supply in this sector. For another consecutive year, Giorgia Meloni’s Government has decided to increase - this time, by 7.3% – the sums allocated to the defense and intended for the acquisition of war material in 2025.
Specifically, according to data extracted by the Milex Observatory from the latest updates of the Budget Law, Italy has allocated 31.2 billion euros in this area, a record figure in the history of the Italian Republic (since 1946). Which also represents a considerable increase compared to, for example, 2016, when this expenditure did not exceed 20 billion. These numbers will also mean that in the next three years 80% of new public investments will be allocated to this sector, according to calculations in the Italian press.
Rome This will lead to 1.58% of GDP allocated to war spending in 2025 (the plan is to reach the objective of 2% in 2028), with funds that will be withdrawn from other sectors, such as green transition, culture, infrastructure and transport. With another important novelty: it has been predicted that, out of the total 31.2 billion, some 13 billion are intended for manufacturers of new warfare technologyas revealed this week by Milex, the body responsible for monitoring Italian war spending.
War power
According to documents consulted by that source and included in an analysis published in July, the Italian Ministry of Defence they would have drawn up lists of weapons of interest in recent years, including new ones Panther fighting carHimars long-range self-propelled missile batteries, training simulators, fighters Typhoon, Goshawk drones, air-to-air missiles and aerial bombs for the F-35Bs, Mars anti-ship missiles for the NH-90 helicopters and also a new Sicral satellite for military communicationsamong others.
However, the decision, although already taken, sparked protests from unions and environmental groups. “It’s a incomprehensible and short-sighted decision and self-destructive”, say eleven organisations, including the WWF and the CGIL, in a joint note. “We need to invest much more environmental transition and social to move towards zero-emission mobility”, they added.
future war
The information also comes after months in which there were several controversies in Italy over shipments of Italian weapons to Israel, which continued even after the start of Israeli operations against Gaza. In fact, together with the United Kingdom, Germany and France, Italy is today one of the main manufacturers of weapons in Europe and, in recent years, the advantages of this group they grew by 43%according to estimates.
This is mainly due to the Italian company Leonardowhose turnover reached 13,000 million euros, of which 70% comes from contracts signed with third countries (mainly NATO countries, Kuwait and Qatar), according to research by the PULSE group.
Even the plans of the Italian Armed Forces do not come from afar, as attested by the ‘Future Operating Environment post 2035’ report, published in 2019. In 2035, “the advantage will be in the ability to implement swarms of drones and robotsnetworks and the internet of things, augmented reality, quantum cryptography“, the military then explained.
Interview: Exploring Italy’s Defense Spending Surge with Dr. Elena Rossi, Geopolitical Analyst
Editor (Time.news): Welcome, Dr. Rossi! It’s great to have you with us today to discuss Italy’s recent decision to significantly increase its defense budget. With the geopolitical tensions rising across Europe, how do you assess the necessity of this boost in funding?
Dr. Elena Rossi: Thank you for having me! The increase in Italy’s defense spending is indeed a response to a rapidly evolving security landscape. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has highlighted vulnerabilities within NATO and European security frameworks, urging countries like Italy to reassess their military readiness and technological capabilities. With the 7.3% increase bringing the total to 31.2 billion euros for 2025, Italy is clearly taking proactive steps.
Editor: That figure—31.2 billion euros—marks a historical high. How does that compare to previous years, and what does it signify about Italy’s defense priorities?
Dr. Rossi: It’s a significant leap indeed. If you look back to 2016, Italy’s defense budget was under 20 billion euros. This trend reflects not just a commitment to NATO’s guideline of 2% GDP spending by 2028 but also a pivot towards acquiring newer technologies. The allocation of 13 billion euros specifically for advanced warfare technology underscores a shift from traditional armament towards more sophisticated capabilities. This includes combat vehicles, advanced missile systems, and enhanced communication technologies.
Editor: Aside from military preparedness, there are concerns that funding at this level may come at the expense of other vital sectors, such as green initiatives and infrastructure. How do you view the trade-offs involved?
Dr. Rossi: Those trade-offs are indeed troubling. The decision to allocate substantial resources to defense doesn’t exist in a vacuum—there are opportunity costs. Funds diverted from crucial areas like climate action, healthcare, and education could hinder social progress and sustainability efforts. It’s essential for the Italian government to balance security needs with the broader aspirations for a resilient and progressive society. The protests from unions and environmental groups are indicative of the societal debate that must occur around this budget.
Editor: Given the current global political climate, do you think this shift in defense spending reflects a broader trend among NATO allies?
Dr. Rossi: Absolutely. We’re witnessing a collective re-evaluation of defense strategies among NATO countries, largely spurred by the situation in Ukraine and perceived threats from Russia. Many nations are increasing their military budgets, not only to meet NATO’s target but also out of a necessity to bolster their own national security. Italy’s decision is part of a larger narrative where countries are striving for more autonomous defense capabilities while responding to the unpredictable nature of contemporary conflicts.
Editor: As Italy ramp-ups its military capabilities, what specific technologies or programs do you think will have the most significant impact on its defense posture?
Dr. Rossi: The focus on advanced warfare technologies will certainly reshape Italy’s military strategy. Investments in long-range artillery systems like the Himars, drones, and modern naval capabilities are crucial. The procurement of new communication satellites and anti-ship missiles further reflects a move towards greater operational effectiveness in various domains, including cyber and space. These enhancements will not only help defend Italy’s borders but also strengthen its position within NATO operations.
Editor: With so much at stake, what would you recommend as a pathway forward for Italy in addressing both its defense needs and societal concerns?
Dr. Rossi: A holistic approach is vital. The government should foster dialogue with citizens, defense experts, and economic stakeholders to ensure transparency in military spending and its implications. Furthermore, Italy can explore partnerships in defense technology that also emphasize research and development in civilian applications, benefiting society at large. It’s about finding that equilibrium where national security does not impede social welfare.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights. Balancing defense needs with social imperatives is indeed a complex challenge, and it will be interesting to see how Italy navigates these waters in the coming years.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing such an important topic.
