Italy orders up to 24 Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft
23 December 2024 – Eurofighter and NETMA (NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) have today signed a contract in Rome to acquire up to 24 Eurofighter aircraft for the Italian Air Force.
The announcement comes at a particularly important time in terms of strategy for the Eurofighter programme, and follows the contract signed on Friday 20 December for 25 aircraft for the Spanish Air Force.
The new Italian Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft will replace the Tranche 1 aircraft currently in service.
Giancarlo Mezzanatto, Eurofighter Chief Executive Officer, said: “Italy’s decision to acquire a further 24 aircraft is obviously fantastic news for our programme, further demonstrating the strength and importance of the Eurofighter Typhoon in Europe.”
“Over the last seven days, two of the four partner countries of the Eurofighter programme have signed new contracts, with the clear intention of starting the modernisation of their respective Air Forces and confirming the crucial role they attribute to this aircraft”.
Stefano Pontecorvo, President of Leonardo, said: “The Eurofighter programme has unquestionably delivered a high level of technology over the years. Its success is also evidence of the extraordinary synergies between industry and institutions”.
“We are proud of what we have achieved together and we are committed to ensuring our contribution so that Italy and all other partner countries continue to obtain the level of capabilities they deserve”.
Lorenzo Mariani, Joint Director General of Leonardo, commented: “This contract is a key achievement for the Eurofighter programme in Italy”.
“Since its inception, it has played a crucial role in national defence and security as well as in the development of advanced technologies and the employment of thousands of highly specialised professionals. With this order just announced, the programme will ensure even greater capabilities and economic returns for many years to come”.
AVM Simon Ellard (ret.), General Manager of NETMA, said: “The additional 24 aircraft for Italy are a new source of pride for the Eurofighter programme.”
“The order will strengthen the capabilities of the Italian Air Force and provide security to Italy, Europe and NATO.”
“This order, which follows the contract for 25 additional aircraft for the Spanish Air Force signed on 20 December, demonstrates that the Eurofighter Typhoon continues to be the backbone of European air defence.”
As with the new Spanish Halcon II order last week, the new Italian Eurofighters will be equipped with advanced avionics and new armament (e.g. Brimstone III and Meteor), new sensors and increased connectivity.
With an expected operational lifecycle beyond 2060, its technical capabilities will allow its full integration into future European operational contexts.
Unofficial translation by EDR On-Line
Photos courtesy Leonardo and L. Ambrino
