The engagement highlighted current operations and long-term planning as international demand for F-35 production and sustainment grows. Senior representatives emphasized Italy’s expanding role in the global F-35 enterprise as European partners increase requirements for aircraft support and industrial capacity.
Located in northern Italy, Cameri is the only F-35 facility in Europe that conducts final assembly and check-out, full-wing production, and maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade work. It is also the only F-35 production facility outside the United States that assembles the F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing variant.
The facility supports F-35 production, sustainment and operational readiness across Europe and beyond. During the visit, officials discussed production performance, sustainment capacity and options to increase Cameri’s output to meet rising demand.
Leaders also reviewed the facility’s ability to scale operations efficiently while maintaining program standards for quality and reliability. The discussions reflected the growing importance of regional sustainment capacity as the European F-35 fleet expands.
Col. Massimo Valente, Italian national deputy to the F-35 Joint Program Office, said the visit highlighted Cameri’s strategic importance within the wider program. “This engagement represents a significant moment for the F 35 enterprise as well as the strong and enduring partnership among the Italian Ministry of Defence, Leonardo and the F 35 Joint Program Office,” Valente said.
“It demonstrates the continued commitment of partner nations to the program’s success,” Valente added.
The visit reaffirmed cooperation among international partners, the Italian Ministry of Defence, Lockheed Martin and Leonardo. Participants recognized the need for continued coordination to ensure Cameri remains fully used as a strategic capability for current and future partner requirements.
The engagement ended with a shared commitment to strengthen cooperation, improve industrial performance and support the long-term success of the F-35 across Europe. The F-35 Joint Program Office said it will continue working with Italy and industry partners to advance production, expand sustainment capacity and support the growing European fleet.
