The signing took place at the International Paris Air Show, and a Capability Roadmap relating to procurement and cooperation was also endorsed
Italy and France have signed a Memorandum of Understanding concerning the mid-life upgrade of the Horizon type Air Defense destroyers, which involves their modernization by Naviris, the joint venture between Fincantieri and Naval Group.
- The signing took place on Tuesday at the International Paris Air Show during a meeting between Lieutenant General Luciano Portolano, Secretary General of Defense and National Armaments Director, and Lieutenant General Thierry Carlier, Delegate General of the French Directorate General of Armaments.
- A Capability Roadmap relating to procurement and cooperation was also signed.
The bilateral meeting took place in a friendly atmosphere, as stated in a note from the Italian Defense Ministry.
- It was an opportunity to strengthen the excellent relations regarding bilateral cooperation with France, particularly in the field of procurement, and to further enhance the strategic technological and industrial capabilities of both countries through participation in international development programs.
- These activities stem from the Quirinale Treaty, signed by Italy and France in November 2021, which identifies potential cooperation programs between the parties to enhance dialogue in technical and operational defence sectors and develop cooperation in capacity building of mutual interest.
On Tuesday, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto held talks with his French counterpart, Sébastien Lecornu.
- The two discussed security in the broader Mediterranean region, the Sahel, European defence, cooperation between the Armed Forces, and industrial collaboration in the defence sector.
