Italy Sets Goal of 10 MQ-9A Block 5 Drones in New Defense Plan

The Italian Ministry of Defense’s new Multi-Year Defense Planning Document (DPP) 2025–2027 envisions a future in which the Aeronautica Militare (Italian Air Force) operates ten MQ-9A Block 5 remotely piloted aircraft — combining existing upgraded units with fresh acquisitions.

A “5 + 5” Fleet Strategy

Already, Italy has begun upgrading its current MQ-9A fleet to the Block 5 standard. These modernized platforms form the backbone of future operations. The DPP adds a clear target: acquire five new units, bringing the total to ten. This “5 upgraded + 5 new” arrangement balances capability growth with logistical and budgetary realism.

Financing & Procurement Timeline

Over the 2025-2027 period, the DPP allocates about €242M in 2025, €154M in 2026, and €276M in 2027, for RPAS programs — totaling approximately €672 million. Beyond that, funds are earmarked for the 2028–2036 horizon to sustain new acquisitions, upgrades, and long-term support. The U.S. has cleared a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) for up to six Block 5 MQ-9As (plus sensors, ground stations and support), giving Italy flexibility in how many new airframes it will ultimately procure.

Why Block 5 Matters

Switching to Block 5 brings a suite of enhancements: more powerful onboard systems, better landing gear, expanded payload capacity, and improved communications and sensor integration (including multi-spectral targeting and maritime surveillance). These upgrades make the MQ-9A far more capable and versatile for missions over sea and land.

Ground Segment & Training

The DPP also allocates resources for 8 ground control stations (GCS Block 30), ensuring Italy can handle multiple simultaneous missions and maintain redundancy. On the training side, the Aeronautica has contracted CAE to provide a “Predator Mission Trainer Plus”, custom-tuned for Block 5 operations, which helps crew conversion and currency as newer platforms arrive.

Operational Implications

With a modern fleet of ten Block 5 drones:

• Persistent ISR presence over the Mediterranean becomes feasible, combining data from Lynx sensors, SAR/GMTI radar, and MWAS capabilities.
• Interoperability with NATO and U.S. systems improves, thanks to shared standards and capabilities.
• Sustainable operational rhythm is supported: five drones allow overlapping missions, maintenance cycles, and training without gaps in coverage.

Challenges & Open Questions

• Delivery schedule: While the U.S. FMS allows up to six new MQ-9s, the DPP’s target of five means timing and selection will matter.
• Sustainment burden: Operating drones is not just about buying them — long-term maintenance, upgrades, spares, and training are recurring costs.
• Doctrine & rules of engagement: Having armed drones imposes requirements on command, oversight, legality, and command-and-control infrastructure.

Bottom Line

Italy is not merely buying unmanned aircraft — it is building an enduring unmanned capability. The “5 + 5” roadmap shows a pragmatic path: leverage modernized existing assets while integrating new ones, all within a funded, sustainable defense plan. If executed well, this strategy could deliver a credible and flexible drone force for the Mediterranean and beyond.