Italian Air Force Upgrades from Tornado to F35A Enhancing NATO Role

The Italian Air Force’s Transition from Tornado to F-35A: Modernizing Air Power in a Shifting Global Landscape

The Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) is undergoing a significant transformation as it phases out its aging fleet of Panavia Tornado jets in favor of the fifth-generation Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II. This transition marks a strategic milestone in Italy’s defense modernization, aligning with broader NATO efforts to enhance interoperability and counter evolving threats.

Originally introduced in the early 1980s, the Tornado played a vital role in Italy’s air capabilities for over four decades. However, the demands of modern warfare, stealth, sensor fusion, and digital interoperability, have rendered the aircraft increasingly obsolete. The F-35A, with its advanced avionics and stealth features, represents a leap forward in tactical airpower, offering Italy a versatile platform capable of fulfilling a wide range of missions.

This article explores the historical context of the Tornado, the specifications and procurement details of the F-35A, recent developments in the Italian Air Force’s transition, and the broader geopolitical and industrial implications of this shift.

Background: The Panavia Tornado’s Legacy and Decline

The Panavia Tornado was a product of a tri-national collaboration between the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy, aimed at developing a multirole combat aircraft suited for Cold War-era threats. Italy introduced the Tornado IDS (Interdiction/Strike) variant into service in 1982, later expanding its fleet to include the ECR (Electronic Combat/Reconnaissance) and ADV (Air Defence Variant) models.

Throughout its service life, the Tornado proved its worth in numerous operations, including the Gulf War, NATO’s Kosovo campaign, and missions in Afghanistan. Its variable-sweep wing design allowed for both high-speed interception and low-level penetration, making it one of the most versatile aircraft of its time.

However, by the 2010s, the Tornado began to show its age. Maintenance costs increased, and its analog systems lagged behind the digital standards of modern platforms. Italy retired the ADV variant in 2004, replacing it with the Eurofighter Typhoon. The IDS and ECR variants are scheduled for full retirement by 2025, with the 155th Squadron being the last to operate them.

Key Facts and Data: Tornado and F-35A Specifications and Procurement

Panavia Tornado IDS

The Tornado IDS was designed for deep strike missions and could carry a variety of munitions, including precision-guided bombs and anti-radiation missiles. Its specifications include a top speed of Mach 2.34 (2,418 km/h) and an operational range of up to 3,800 km for ferry missions.

Its armament suite included the AGM-88 HARM for SEAD missions, the Storm Shadow cruise missile, and various GBU-series laser-guided bombs. Air-to-air defense was supported by AIM-9L Sidewinders. Despite its robust capabilities, the Tornado’s analog avionics and limited stealth made it less suitable for modern contested environments.

By 2025, the Tornado will have completed 42 years of service in the Italian Air Force, marking the end of an era for a platform once central to NATO’s tactical airpower.

Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II

The F-35A is a fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter developed under the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program. Italy, as a Tier 2 partner, has played a significant role in its development and production, including hosting the Cameri Final Assembly and Checkout Facility.

The F-35A’s unit cost is approximately $82.5 million, with a direct operating cost of $42,000 per flight hour. While higher than legacy aircraft like the F-16, these costs reflect the advanced capabilities of the platform, including radar-evading stealth, sensor fusion, and real-time data sharing.

Italy plans to procure a total of 115 F-35s, 60 F-35As and 30 F-35Bs for the Air Force, and 15 F-35Bs for the Navy. Initial Operational Capability (IOC) was declared in 2018, and deliveries have been steadily increasing since then.

“The F-35A is not just a fighter, it’s a data node, a networked platform that changes how we think about airpower.” — General Alberto Rosso, Chief of the Italian Air Force

Recent Developments: Accelerating the F-35 Transition

Expanded F-35 Procurement

Italy’s 2024 defense budget allocated €7 billion (approximately $7.79 billion) for the acquisition of 25 additional F-35s, 15 F-35As and 10 F-35Bs. This brings the total planned fleet to 115 aircraft, up from the originally intended 90. The increase reflects Italy’s commitment to NATO interoperability and the need to counter emerging threats.

This procurement surge is partly driven by rising tensions in Eastern Europe and the Indo-Pacific, where stealth and rapid response capabilities are increasingly valued. Italy’s decision also supports its domestic aerospace sector, particularly through the Cameri assembly line.

By expanding its fleet, Italy is also ensuring a smoother transition from its legacy platforms, allowing for phased retirements and sustained operational readiness during the handover period.

Squadron Reassignments and Infrastructure Upgrades

On July 3, 2025, the 154th Squadron officially transitioned from the Tornado IDS to the F-35A, marking a symbolic end to the Tornado’s operational role in that unit. The squadron now operates four F-35As, with additional aircraft expected in the coming months.

The 155th Squadron remains the last operational unit flying the Tornado IDS and ECR variants, primarily tasked with NATO’s nuclear sharing missions. These roles are expected to transition to the F-35A once full certification is achieved.

Italy is also investing in infrastructure to support the F-35B’s short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities. The Trieste amphibious assault ship is being modified to accommodate these jets, and new facilities are under development at Grottaglie and Decimomannu air bases.

Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)

In parallel with the F-35 acquisition, Italy is participating in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a sixth-generation fighter initiative with the United Kingdom and Japan. In 2024 alone, Italy allocated €506 million ($563 million) to the program.

GCAP aims to develop a next-generation platform by the 2030s, incorporating AI, advanced sensors, and optionally manned capabilities. Italy’s Leonardo is contributing expertise in avionics and Radar-Systems.

While the F-35 addresses current operational needs, GCAP represents a long-term strategic investment, ensuring Italy remains at the forefront of aerospace innovation and defense technology.

Expert Opinions: Strategic Implications and Challenges

Military Leadership and Industry Perspectives

General Alberto Rosso, Chief of the Italian Air Force, has emphasized the transformative nature of the F-35A, describing it as a “data machine” that enables real-time information sharing among NATO allies. This capability is particularly vital in joint operations and complex threat environments.

Lockheed Martin, the F-35’s manufacturers, has highlighted the importance of Italy’s Cameri facility, which not only assembles Italian jets but also serves as a maintenance hub for European users. This industrial role enhances Italy’s strategic autonomy and economic return on investment.

Analysts note that while the F-35 offers unparalleled capabilities, its operational costs remain a concern. At $42,000 per flight hour, it is significantly more expensive than legacy platforms, necessitating careful budgeting and fleet management.

Supply Chain and Interoperability

Italy’s participation in the F-35 program extends beyond procurement. Its involvement in the European Supply-Chain, through companies like Leonardo, Avio Aero, and others, ensures that a significant portion of the aircraft’s value is retained domestically.

However, supply chain vulnerabilities persist, particularly amid global tensions and export restrictions. Diversifying component sourcing and enhancing domestic production capabilities are ongoing priorities for Italian defense planners.

From an operational standpoint, the F-35’s interoperability with NATO systems enhances Italy’s role in joint missions, from Baltic Air Policing to Mediterranean maritime patrols. Exercises like TLP 18-4 have demonstrated the platform’s ability to integrate seamlessly with allied forces.

Global and Industry Context: NATO’s Fifth-Generation Dominance

Italy’s F-35 procurement is part of a broader NATO trend toward fifth-generation airpower. Fifteen member states are either operating or acquiring the F-35, making it a cornerstone of the alliance’s future force structure.

As peer competitors like Russia and China develop stealth and hypersonic technologies, NATO’s investment in platforms like the F-35 is seen as essential to maintaining air superiority and deterrence capabilities.

Italy’s dual-track approach, modernizing with the F-35 while investing in GCAP, positions it as a key player in the future of European defense. This strategy balances immediate operational needs with long-term innovation and industrial growth.

Conclusion

The Italian Air Force’s transition from the Panavia Tornado to the F-35A Lightning II represents more than a technological upgrade, it is a strategic realignment toward modern warfare’s demands. With enhanced stealth, sensor fusion, and interoperability, the F-35A offers capabilities that far exceed those of its predecessor.

As Italy continues to expand its F-35 fleet and invest in next-generation platforms like GCAP, it reinforces its commitment to NATO and its role as a leading European airpower. The challenges of cost and complexity are real, but so too are the opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and strategic deterrence.

FAQ

When will the Italian Air Force retire its last Tornado jet?
The last Tornado IDS is expected to be retired by 2025, with the 155th Squadron currently operating the final units.

How many F-35s is Italy planning to acquire?
Italy plans to procure 115 F-35s: 60 F-35As and 30 F-35Bs for the Air Force, and 15 F-35Bs for the Navy.

What is the purpose of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP)?
GCAP is a sixth-generation fighter development initiative involving Italy, the UK, and Japan, aimed at creating an advanced combat aircraft by the 2030s.

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