Italy has paused its negotiations with Elon Musk’s Starlink over a potential deal to provide encrypted satellite communications for the Italian government. Defense Minister Guido Crosetto cited geopolitical tensions and controversial remarks related to Musk as reasons for the stall. Despite Starlink’s leading role in satellite technology, Italian opposition parties raised concerns about relying on a foreign businessman for national security infrastructure. Talks are expected to resume at a technical level once tensions ease. Meanwhile, Musk’s representative in Italy, Andrea Stroppa, stated Starlink could still serve as a short-term solution for the country’s satellite needs.
Related Posts
Turkish drone maker Baykar buys Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace
- Veiko Lukmann
- 30/12/2024
- 0
Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar has acquired Italian aircraft producer Piaggio Aerospace, according to Italy’s industry ministry. The financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed. Piaggio Aerospace has been under government-controlled special administration since 2018 after filing for creditor protection. Baykar’s bid was selected over two international offers for its commitment to protecting the interests of Piaggio’s workers and creditors. The deal aims to secure Piaggio Aerospace’s industrial future and strengthen its operations. Original news
Leonardo Targets €30 Billion Revenue by 2029 Amid Defense Spending Boom
- Veiko Lukmann
- 13/03/2025
- 0
Leonardo aims to reach €30 billion ($32.5 billion) in revenue by 2029, driven by rising European defense budgets and industry expansion. The forecast was announced during the company’s FY2024 results and 2025–29 industrial update on March 11. In 2024, Leonardo reported €17.8 billion ($19.8 billion) in revenue, marking a significant increase toward its long-term target. The company plans to focus on strengthening its core business sectors, particularly in defense, security, and advanced aircraft and helicopter platforms. Leonardo’s growth strategy aligns with increasing European investments in military capabilities and defense modernization. Original news
Japan, UK and Italy to expedite next-generation fighter jet to replace F-2s and Eurofighter Typhoons
- Veiko Lukmann
- 21/10/2024
- 0
The defense ministers of Japan, the U.K., and Italy have agreed to accelerate the development of a next-generation stealth fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), aiming for deployment by 2035. A trilateral organization, GCAP International Government Organization (GIGO), will be established by the end of the year to oversee the aircraft’s development, with involvement from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. The fighter jet will replace Japan’s F-2s and Eurofighter Typhoons, enhancing defense capabilities amid growing threats from China, Russia, and North Korea. GIGO will be based in the U.K. and will be led by a […]