Italy bought the F-35 to replace older jets and boost its air power. The aircraft is a stealth multirole fighter that can do air‑to‑air fights, strike ground targets and gather intel. For many Italians, the F-35 shows the country’s tech muscle and NATO commitment.
The decision was about staying ahead. Italy needed a plane that could fly undetected, hit far‑away targets and link up with allies. The F-35’s sensor suite and data‑link let pilots share a live picture of the battlefield. That makes missions safer and more effective for the Italian Air Force.
Another big factor was partnership. By joining the F‑35 program, Italy gets a seat at the table when new upgrades are designed. It also means Italian companies like Leonardo can work on parts, keeping jobs at home and reducing costs over time.
Italy’s first F‑35As arrived in 2018 and have been rolling out steadily. As of now, the Air Force operates about 30 jets, with more on the way. The goal is to have around 60 aircraft by the early 2030s, mixing the single‑seat F‑35A with the two‑seat F‑35B for short‑takeoff/vertical‑landing capability on ships.
Training is a big part of the rollout. Italian pilots train in the U.S. and at domestic bases equipped with new simulators. Mechanics also get special courses to keep the fleet flying high and to fix any issues quickly.
What’s next? Italy plans to upgrade its jets with the latest software blocks, adding better radar, weapons and communication tools. There’s talk of using the F‑35 for air‑to‑space missions, a sign that the aircraft will stay relevant for decades.
In short, the Italian F‑35 program isn’t just about buying a plane—it’s about building a future‑ready air force, supporting local industry and staying tightly linked with NATO allies. Whether you’re a fan of military tech or just curious about Italy’s sky warriors, the F‑35 is a key piece of the puzzle.
