Italy's Leonardo Signs Aerospace and Defense Agreement With Saudi Arabia

Italy's Leonardo, a leading global player in the aerospace, defense, and security sectors, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to expand their collaboration in the defense and aerospace sector. The agreement, signed during bilateral meetings between Italy and the KSA, involves the Ministry of Investment (MISA) and the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) of the Kingdom, and Leonardo.

The MoU covers a broad range of sectors in which Leonardo has strong technological capabilities, including space, rotorcraft, electronics and sensors, Combat Air, Cross-Domain Integration, uncrewed systems, digital technologies, industrialization, and services. The parties aim to discuss, develop, and evaluate a range of investment and collaboration opportunities in these sectors.



The agreement builds on a previous MoU signed in early 2024, which explored multiple areas of collaboration, such as space industry, airframe MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), localization of electronic warfare systems and radars, and assembly of helicopters. The new MoU focuses on further expanding the industrial collaboration in the Combat Air and helicopter fields.

Leonardo has a long history of supplying advanced platforms, systems, and services to the KSA, including passenger transport and rescue rotorcraft, maritime defense systems, electronic sensors, and cybersecurity solutions. The company's contribution to Saudi air defense has been particularly noteworthy, further underscoring its strategic importance.

The agreement aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to implement unprecedented reforms in the public sector, diversify the economy, empower citizens and businesses, and create innovative growth opportunities. By collaborating with local technological partners, research establishments, and end-users, Leonardo will be able to generate sustained development and production in the country, supporting the objectives of Vision 2030.

In conclusion, the agreement between Italy's Leonardo and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia represents a significant step in strengthening their collaboration in the defense and aerospace sectors. The MoU covers a wide range of technological areas and aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, contributing to the country's economic diversification and empowerment of its citizens and businesses. As the region continues to evolve, this agreement has the potential to impact the regional balance of power in the aerospace and defense sector, fostering competition and innovation.