Italy Negotiates $1.6 Billion Starlink Deal

Italy is in advanced negotiations with SpaceX's Starlink for a potential $1.6 billion agreement to provide secure telecommunications services for the government, a move that has sparked controversy regarding reliance on a US company. The project, aimed at enhancing encrypted communication channels for government and military operations, has received approval from Italy’s intelligence services and defense ministry. However, defense minister Guido Crosetto emphasized that no agreement has been finalized and that alternative solutions are being evaluated. Concerns have been raised by opposition parties about entrusting such a significant contract to a company owned by Elon Musk, especially in light of Italy's plans for a sovereign satellite communications network, IRIS². Despite these apprehensions, the partnership with Starlink is seen as a potential boon for Italy’s telecommunications landscape, especially in remote areas where traditional infrastructure has lagged. The negotiations have reportedly gained momentum following Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's recent meeting with President-elect Donald Trump.