Italy is set to become the premier location for F-35 fighter jet pilot training outside the United States, with the formal announcement of an air force base in Sicily designated as the first international training center. This strategic move by Italy aims to meet the escalating demand for F-35 pilot instruction driven by increased participation from NATO and European nations in the advanced fighter program.
A New European Training Center
The Trapani-Birgi Air Base in Sicily has been officially selected to house the first F-35 pilot training school located outside of the United States. This initiative, overseen by the F-35 Joint Program Office and Lockheed Martin, is a direct response to the growing need for training as more European countries integrate the fifth-generation fighter into their air forces. The Italian Ministry of Defense has committed €112.6 million to the project, which includes the development of a “Lightning Training Centre” equipped with two full mission simulators.
Initial ground training is slated to commence by December 2028, with the full completion of the training center anticipated by July 2029. This development will transform Trapani-Birgi into Italy’s third base for hosting F-35 aircraft, accommodating both an Italian F-35 squadron and a dedicated squadron for international students. The Italian defense ministry emphasized that this move underscores a strong political will to enhance Italy’s strategic position within the F-35 program. Italian defense giant Leonardo will partner with Lockheed Martin in the construction and operation of the facility, building on their previous collaboration at the F-35 Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul, and Upgrade (MRO&U) hub in Cameri.
Expanding Italy’s Role in the F-35 Program
Italy’s involvement in the F-35 program extends beyond training. The country already operates a significant MRO&U hub for European F-35 jets at the Cameri air base, which also handles final assembly for Italian and Dutch aircraft. Furthermore, Italy’s existing pilot training capabilities are robust, with a school at Decimomannu on Sardinia already training pilots from various international partners. The establishment of the Trapani training center is expected to further solidify Italy’s central role in the F-35 ecosystem, offering a crucial training alternative to the existing facilities primarily located in the United States.