President Sergio Mattarella called for a significant renewal of Italy’s armed forces, citing the spread of disinformation, cyber threats and the growing use of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. He made the remarks in a message to Defence Minister Guido Crosetto for National Unity and Armed Forces Day on 4 November.
Mattarella said traditional conflicts continue to affect large parts of the world, including Europe, while new forms of competition and aggression are expanding. He said the armed forces’ daily work is important both to protect the country from external threats and to uphold international law. Meeting these challenges, he added, requires quickly integrating new technologies and building practical capabilities for the future.
The president also noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the Italian people’s choice of a republic. He said the armed forces’ oath of loyalty is grounded in the values of the Constitution, which connect the country’s memory of the past with hopes for future generations and the aim of preventing the atrocities of the world wars from recurring.
Mattarella described the occasion as a celebration of Italy’s unification and of the country’s path to freedom and democracy through the Liberation struggle. He also highlighted the Republic’s pursuit of peace and international cooperation.
Earlier in the day, Mattarella laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Rome’s Altare della Patria. He later attended commemorations in Florence, where the Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team flew over Piazzale Michelangelo.
Sources: ANSA Politica.