Italy Taps L3Harris for $300M Airborne Electronic Warfare Aircraft Contract
L3Harris has received a $300-million contract from Italy to supply two Gulfstream G550 aircraft equipped for electromagnetic warfare.
The modified G550s will support the Italian Air Force with long-range airborne jamming capabilities to disrupt enemy communications, radar, and navigation systems.
The aircraft will join Italy’s special mission fleet, which includes the Joint Airborne Multi-Mission Multi-Sensor System (JAMMS).
JAMMS is part of L3Harris’ broader portfolio of multi-mission aircraft programs used by the US, Australia, Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
“We are expanding our support of Italy’s armed forces by equipping them with modern mission technology ready for managing a dynamic global landscape,” said Jason Lambert, President, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, L3Harris.
“Our team will provide Italy with solutions to augment its national security and increase its interoperability with the US and strategic allies,” added Lambert.
To implement the project, the American company will partner with BAE Systems.
Closer Ties With Washington
Rome is deepening defense ties with the US through a series of recent partnerships and acquisitions.
Last month, the US State Department approved thepossible sale of 70 AMRAAM missiles to Italy, including 30 AIM-120D-3s and 40 AIM-120C-8s, along with related equipment and services, for an estimated $211 million.
In May, the two countries signed an agreement to expand cooperation and interoperability on space security.
Earlier this year, Italy finalized a $46.6-million contract with the American firm AeroVironment to acquire Jump 20 fixed-wing drones, which will replace its AAI RQ-7 Shadow platforms.
