Italian Support for Ukraine: A Quiet but Steady Commitment

Today marks 1,000 days since Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Throughout these 1,000 days, Italy’s commitment has remained steadfast, regardless of the successive governments, in providing weapons and military equipment to Ukraine.

This support has not always been highlighted prominently due to certain political forces, including some within the government, that have taken more or less openly pro-Russian stances. Nevertheless, the flow of arms has continued rather steadily.

For these shipments, the Italian Air Force has utilized all three of its main transport aircraft: the C-27J, the C-130J, and the larger KC-767A. In the image above, we have highlighted flights carried out in the past month, particularly by the latter aircraft.

Two planes, in particular—MM62227 and MM62228—have been heavily involved in these operations, both based at Pratica di Mare Air Base, south of Rome. Typically, the flights operate between Pratica di Mare and Rzeszów, the hub in Poland where all military aid destined for Ukraine is concentrated. However, there have also been some “special” routes. At least one rotation included a stop in Eindhoven before heading to Rzeszów, and there have been at least two flights (the most recent being today) that traveled between Italy and Poland via Sigonella Air Base.

The specific details of the weapons sent to Ukraine remain classified.