Tom Kington
Tom Kington is the Italy correspondent for Defense News.
All Stories By Tom
Italy’s sudden defense-spending uptick lacks details, economist finds
NATO is satisfied with Rome's proclaimed budget boost in line with alliance targets, despite questions over the internal mathematics.
Raytheon, Leonardo Hash Out Differences Over T-X Trainer Partnership
The partnership between Raytheon and Italy’s Leonardo to sell jet trainers to the US is back on track after nearly falling apart thanks to a dispute over who calls the shots, multiple sources knowledgeable of the talks have told Defense News.
Avio Space sold by UK fund
After 10 years of ownership by a UK fund, Italian space launcher maker Avio Space is to fall once again under Italian control.
Italy's New Centauro II Tank Shown Off in Rome
Italy’s new tank, the Centauro II, was shown off at a military test range Wednesday, as the country's Parliament continued to decide whether to fund the vehicle.
Leonardo gives details of radar sale for Fire Scout
The $5.8 million deal was first announced by the Navy in June, but Leonardo was hitherto prevented from speaking about it while an ultimately unsuccessful challenge to the contract was mounted by rival Telephonics.
NATO Leaders Give Cautious Welcome to EU Defense Plans
In a careful speech in Rome on Friday, NATO head Jens Stoltenberg welcomed European plans for a tighter defense capability, but warned the continent against creating an “alternative” to NATO.
Italy Urges France To Discuss 'Naval Airbus'
There are calls for closer cooperation between Italian and French shipyards that could lead toward what is being described in Italy as a “naval Airbus."
Italian Parliament Weighs New Tanks, Helicopters
The Italian army is a step closer to acquiring new tanks and assault helicopters after plans for the purchases were submitted for parliamentary approval.
Italy Deals With Opposing Sides in Libya to Protect Its Forces
Italy is doing business with Libyan military commander Gen. Khalifa Haftar, despite backing his militia foes.
Jail Time Requested for Leonardo-Finmeccanica CEO Over Train Crash
Italian prosecutors have asked for a 16-year jail sentence for Mauro Moretti, the head of Italy’s Leonardo-Finmeccanica, following a deadly train crash during his time as head of Italy’s railways.
