Sicily will become the first location outside the United States where F-35 fighter jet pilots are trained, Italy’s Defense Minister Guido Crosetto announced during a visit to the Decimomannu Air Base in Sardinia. “Just as we are the only country in the world assembling F-35s outside of the U.S., at the Cameri facility in Piedmont, we’re now expanding that role with pilot training,” Crosetto stated.

“This is how we build the future—not just through military defense, but by making defense a driver of social progress, economic development, and technological innovation. This initiative is a clear example of that vision,” he added. The announcement was made during a ceremony at the International Flying Training School in Decimomannu in Sardinia. President Sergio Mattarella and Minister Crosetto were both in attendance. 

General Antonio Conserva, Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, highlighted the importance of training in safeguarding national airspace: “Training is essential to defend our skies. We are at the forefront of aviation technology, not just with the aircraft themselves but also with cutting-edge simulation systems.”

He also noted advancements in artificial intelligence are being integrated into training protocols: “The industry is now incorporating AI systems that will significantly enhance the skills and performance of pilots graduating from this program.”