The centerpiece of the two-day event is strengthening capabilities to deter Russian threats.
Nearly 200 people were invited to the meeting Second edition of the European air and missile defense conferenceThey included European military leaders and defense ministers from across the continent.
The two-day summit, to be held on Monday and Tuesday, focuses on the need to strengthen defense capabilities on the European continent and deter potential threatstaking into account recent geopolitical events Challenges facing Europe. On Tuesday, the main day of the event, the panels will touch upon many topics, including military, industry and politics. At the end of the event, the Italian Defense Minister and his French counterpart will attend a joint press conference.
The question of what will happen after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine Building a stronger defense across Europe has become one priority For European leaders, especially in light of upcoming US elections that could lead to a change in US defense support for Europe. Need EU strengthens defense system and increases weapons production capabilities In fact, this is one of the main objectives of the next European Commission.
The protection of Europe is in danger
We met with one of the defense policy experts who will moderate one of the panels to be held at the Italian Air Force headquarters on Tuesday. The panel focuses on the military aspect of European air and missile defense. We ask him what’s at stake and importance of the event.
“The aim of the conference is to continue the debate on integrated air and missile defense for the skies of Europe, in particular how to do this.” Protecting European territory from Russian bombs and drones” says Alessandro Marrone, defense program manager at the IAI institute in Rome.
As Marrone explains, the entire debate about defending Europe has changed over the years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. “Since 2014 threats Marrone continues: “The problems facing Europe are of a different order. In light of this, the European Commission and EU institutions have begun to implement strategies and legislation and use funding allocations focused on:industrially and technologically “Europe is more independent and has the capacity to produce the necessary equipment.”
The event also highlights its importance. Develop military strategies. According to Marrone, despite his role I will takeEU countries must do more: “Due to the nature of European airspace, they need to do more in a coordinated and independent way.” The aim is: integrate multiple systems “It was produced partly in the United States and partly in Europe to create a unified system,” Marrone adds. artificial intelligence technologies “The system, which has secure cyber connections, aims to detect possible threats before they reach Europe and neutralize them with the most effective methods,” adds the expert.
By hosting the conference, Italy plans to play an active role. Marrone says: “To hold the conference in Rome and present a document summarizing Italy’s vision and proposals, influence the discussion and encourage partners to take Italy’s position into account.” The Rome meeting is expected to stimulate new discussions on the issue within EU institutions.
