Italy’s government has approved a draft law that would reorganize military cyber operations and create a dedicated career path for cyber professionals.
Proposed by Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, the legislation would amend Italy’s Military Code as part of a broader defense overhaul.
The measure must still be approved by parliament before taking effect.
Under the bill, the defense minister would define and periodically update the part of cyberspace considered relevant to national defense and military security.
The Chief of Defence Staff would become the defense ministry’s cyber authority and assume overall responsibility for cyber activities and data.
Rome would also rename the Defence Staff’s Intelligence and Security Department as the Joint Cyber Intelligence Command.
Cyber Specialists
The legislation would introduce the position of military cyber specialist, with certification issued by the Chief of Defence Staff.
Personnel would initially serve for five years and could extend their service in two-year periods up to four times, allowing them to remain in the role for a maximum of 13 years.
Each two-year extension would carry an annual incentive of 4,300 euros ($4,960).
Cyber operators would also receive a dedicated allowance in addition to existing operational pay.
A dedicated training center would be established to prepare personnel for combat operations and hybrid threats.
To support the program, the government plans to establish a Cybersecurity Incentive Fund with 1.5 million euros ($1.7 million) in 2027, increasing to 15 million euros ($17.3 million) annually from 2036.
Faster Development
The bill also includes measures to accelerate the development and procurement of new defense technologies.
It would establish a military research fund with 10 million euros ($11.5 million) annually to finance scientific research and experimental development.
The bill would also simplify urgent procurement and speed up the testing and acquisition of prototypes.
Results from accredited external testing centers could also be accepted when military facilities are unavailable.