Italy removes Israeli companies, including Rafael, from Rome airport's counter-drone project

Italy's highest administrative court has mandated that Rome Fiumicino Airport replace its counter-drone protection system provider, removing two Israeli defense companies from a key infrastructure project. The Council of State ordered "Aeroporti di Roma" (ADR) to switch from the Israeli consortium to Italy's electronic warfare company ELT (Elettronica S.p.A.).

The ruling affects Altintech and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the latter being the manufacturer of Israel's Iron Dome. This decision carries significant diplomatic and legal weight, impacting a high-profile Israeli defense presence at a major European airport. A previous ruling by the Regional Administrative Court of Lazio had upheld the contract with the Israeli consortium, but this has now been overturned.

The court's justification centers on the classification of the radar system. Italian Defense Ministry experts determined the system qualifies as military equipment due to its technical characteristics and registration. Crucially, the necessary authorizations for importing and operating such military material were reportedly not in place. ADR has argued the radar is a dual-use system used at other European airports and for event security.

ADR must now finalize a contract with ELT within 60 days. The court has also transmitted the case file to the Rome Public Prosecutor's Office to assess whether criminal investigations into the procurement process are warranted. The airport operator stated it will comply with the ruling while ensuring uninterrupted security operations.