Carabinieri to Deploy Anti-Drone Shields Across Italian Stations
The 2026-2028 defense plan introduces electronic surveillance and modernized equipment for national security.
1National Anti-Drone Shield
The Italian Ministry of Defense has proposed a territorial protective shield to be installed at Carabinieri stations nationwide. Detailed in the 2026-2028 multi-year programmatic document, the initiative aims to detect electromagnetic anomalies. This system will monitor drone command signals to mitigate threats from state actors, parastatal entities, and organized criminal organizations.
2Cognitive Dimension Integration
Beyond hardware, the Carabinieri plan to establish a dedicated section focused on the cognitive dimension. This unit will operate in coordination with national intelligence services and the National Cybersecurity Agency. This strategic shift reflects an increasing need to address non-kinetic threats alongside traditional physical security measures within the national territory.
3Station Operational Restructuring
The force is reclassifying stations into operative centers in medium-to-large cities and residential stations in smaller municipalities. Residential stations will see reduced administrative burdens to enhance local proximity. Meanwhile, personnel are being redirected to Radiomobile units to increase visible presence, addressing a current staffing shortage of over 4,000 active duty members.
4Modernizing Security Fleet
Procurement plans for territorial security include 640 pedal-assisted bicycles, 183 electric vehicles, and 20 single-engine AWI 19 helicopters. Additionally, the force is acquiring one medium multi-role AW-139 helicopter and two P-180 EVO Plus fixed-wing aircraft. These investments aim to modernize the fleet while improving operational efficiency across diverse geographic and urban environments.
5Advanced Tactical Equipment
The Carabinieri are expanding their tactical toolkit by acquiring electric pulse weapons, known as tasers, with training already underway at formation institutes. Furthermore, the force is implementing bodycam technology and integrating quantum cryptography systems. These advancements are designed to improve evidence collection and secure communications against sophisticated digital interception attempts by adversaries.
6New Specialized Units
The defense plan includes the creation of the Cacciatori delle Alpi, a new helicopter-borne squadron. This unit is intended to bolster rapid response capabilities in mountainous regions. The formation of this specialized group aligns with broader efforts to enhance territorial control and tactical readiness in challenging terrains across the Italian landscape.
7Uniform and Logistics Reform
A comprehensive revision of uniforms is scheduled for 2026, introducing winter boots and polo shirts for all personnel. To streamline distribution, the Carabinieri will launch a pilot program centralizing inventory at two national hubs. Military personnel will request items via a dedicated digital portal, with deliveries handled directly by express courier services.
8Strategic Security Outlook
These initiatives represent a significant modernization effort for the Carabinieri, balancing technological upgrades with structural reorganization. By addressing both the shortage of personnel and the need for advanced electronic intelligence, the force aims to adapt to evolving security threats. The success of these measures depends on the effective implementation of the 2026-2028 programmatic goals.