Trade associations from Italy, UK to boost industry opportunities

Two major defence and security trade associations from Italy and the UK have signed an agreement to “develop joint initiatives and share industrial opportunities” as part of a new long-term partnership. 

The agreement was signed on 21 May by AIAD, a federation representing Italian aerospace, defence, and security companies, and ADS Group, a UK trade association covering the same sectors, alongside space. 

As part of the agreement – signed at Villa Wolkonsky, the official residence of the British Ambassador to Italy – the organisations promised to support companies exploring market entry and international investments. 

ADS and AIAD also detailed plans to coordinate participation in defence and security events and collaboratively organise trade missions and delegation visits within their respective countries. 

Beyond these goals, the two trade organisations will also look to establish a joint working group to scope out opportunities and pathways for collaboration.  

Neither country has disclosed when this working group might be stood-up, but – when ready – it will meet “periodically”. 

A timely collaboration 

This push to bolster industry access and collaboration comes amid Italy, Japan, and the UK’s efforts to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet under the GCAP programme.  

For the two trade associations – which together represent over 2,000 companies – this collaboration could provide industry in both countries greater opportunities to work together, share expertise, and bid to support programmes such as GCAP.  

While GCAP itself is currently in the design and development phase, the Financial Times recently reported that the UK is preparing a GBP6 billion funding package for the programme, allowing it to progress to the next stage.