Bilateral talks between the Italian Air Force and the Israeli Air Force held in Rome
The annual meeting was chaired by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Air Squad General Paolo Magro, whilst the Israeli Air Force delegation was led by Brigadier General Hagi Topolansky, Chief of Staff of the Israeli Air Force, IAF. Chief of the Air Staff. The talks took place at Palazzo Aeronautica in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. In his introduction, General Magro highlighted how important the promotion and development of cooperation between the two Air Forces is, whilst also sharing common values, objectives and viewpoints, within the framework of peace and stability in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern region. Topics of mutual interest were discussed, planning future exchanges of experience and cooperation. Specifically, the use of the C-130J aircraft was discussed, where the Italian Air Force was asked to provide the know-how acquired in the framework of crew training and aircraft maintenance regarding the T-346 advanced trainer, of which Israel has purchased 30 units, and of remotely piloted aircraft crew training; furthermore, within a broader strategic vision, issues concerning integrated air defence, air mobility and operational logistical support were addressed.
Following the completion of the theoretical phase of the talks, the Israeli delegation visited the Alenia Aermacchi facilities where the T-346 is produced, during which General Topolansky and Colonel Regev (Military Attaché in Rome) had the opportunity to test-fly the new advanced trainer, praising its handling qualities and reliability. The delegation then moved to the Cameri plant, where the new multi-role aircraft, which will also be supplied to the IAF, is assembled. The visit concluded at the 4th Wing in Grosseto, where General Topolansky had the opportunity to witness a short demonstration sortie of the EF-2000 aircraft, and at the 46th Air Brigade in Pisa, where the training activities of the CAE and the operational activities of the Brigade were illustrated.
