The United States has notified Congress of a planned sale to Italy worth up to $301 million for a stock of 100 AGM-158B/B-2 JASSM-ER long-range precision missiles, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced. The potential Foreign Military Sale underscores intensifying U.S.–Italian defense cooperation at a time of heightened European security concerns and NATO operational expansion.
If approved, the deal would make Italy part of a restricted group of European air forces equipped to conduct deep, conventional strike missions at stand-off ranges nearing a thousand kilometers. In operational terms, the acquisition significantly upgrades Italy’s F-35A aircraft by adding capabilities traditionally associated with long-range deterrence rather than tactical strike missions alone.
The proposed package covers more than missile deliveries. Italy would obtain JASSM-specific test systems, encryption devices, operational containers, spare parts, consumables, software suites, documentation, and logistics support. Engineering and technical assistance from U.S. contractors and government agencies are also included, ensuring that Italy receives a fully integrated capability spanning deployment, sustainment, and combat readiness.
DSCA noted that the quoted $301 million represents the highest forecasted price based on preliminary requirements and that the final contract value is expected to decrease once Italy finalizes its configuration and budget allocations. Securing the approval framework now allows Rome to access the U.S. deep-strike ecosystem while adjusting procurement levels as defense spending priorities evolve.
