Italy Nears $1.55 Billion Deal with SpaceX for Secure Communications

Italy is in advanced talks with Elon Musk‘s SpaceX for a 1.5 billion euro ($1.55 billion) deal to provide secure telecommunications services to the government, Bloomberg News reported on Sunday. The five-year contract, which has been approved by Italy’s Intelligence Services and Defence Ministry, would involve SpaceX supplying encrypted telephone and internet services, as well as satellite communications for military operations in the Mediterranean and emergency response scenarios.

The deal, still under negotiation, aims to bolster Italy’s national security infrastructure. According to unnamed sources cited by Bloomberg, the project includes the rollout of satellite services to enhance connectivity during crises such as terrorist attacks or natural disasters. SpaceX and Italy’s Defence Ministry have not yet commented on the report.

This development follows Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni‘s recent visit to the U.S., where she met with President-elect Donald Trump and reaffirmed her close relationship with Musk. Meloni has publicly praised Musk for his innovation, calling him a “great personality of our time” during an interview with Corriere Della Sera. She criticized the negative portrayal of Musk, attributing it to his political affiliations and support for Trump.

Italy’s interest in SpaceX aligns with its broader strategy to improve high-speed internet access nationwide. Reuters reported last month that Italy plans to test SpaceX’s satellite-based connectivity as early as January to determine its viability for expanding internet infrastructure.

Meloni’s administration has prioritized strengthening ties with the U.S. and leveraging cutting-edge technology to address national challenges. The potential partnership with SpaceX underscores Italy’s commitment to modernizing its telecommunications and defense systems.