Whatsapp Facebook Twitter The proposed five-year agreement aims to equip the Italian government with top-level encryption for telephone and internet services, alongside additional communication capabilities for its military in the Mediterranean region A comprehensive plan for secure communication The proposed five-year agreement aims to equip the Italian government with top-level encryption for telephone and internet services, alongside additional communication capabilities for its military in the Mediterranean region. The plan also includes the roll-out of direct-to-cell satellite services for emergencies like natural disasters or terror attacks. Negotiations began in mid-2023 but faced delays due to concerns from some Italian officials about potential impacts on local telecom providers. Despite this, the project reflects Italy’s growing interest in leveraging cutting-edge satellite technology for national security and emergency preparedness. Starlink’s global push and strategic edge This potential deal comes as SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service continues its rapid global expansion. In 2025 alone, Starlink added over 20 countries, from Ghana to Argentina, bringing its service to more than 100 nations and territories with a user base exceeding four million. SpaceX’s mix of technological innovation and Musk’s increasing political influence has allowed it to outpace traditional telecom providers and competitors like Amazon and China-backed initiatives. Starlink’s services range from residential internet to applications for maritime, aviation, and defence sectors. For Italy, its military and government applications, particularly the Starshield platform designed for secure uses, are a significant draw. A competitive landscape for Italian telecoms Italy’s telecom market, one of the most competitive in the world, is undergoing rapid changes. Local carriers have faced shrinking profits, leading to industry consolidation and asset sales. In 2024, Telecom Italia sold its landline network to US private equity firm KKR & Co for €22 billion, a deal strongly supported by Meloni’s government to reduce national debt. While Italy considers telecommunications a strategic asset and holds stakes in major carriers like FiberCop and Open Fiber, the integration of SpaceX services poses challenges. Starlink’s rapid roll-out in Italy has already faced pushback, with claims of obstruction from Telecom Italia. Editor’s Picks