Italy Amplifies Defense to Counter Hybrid Warfare Threats

Italy plans to establish a civilian and military unit to combat hybrid warfare threats, as revealed in a strategic report by Defence Minister Guido Crosetto. With critical infrastructure at risk, the initiative aims to employ 5,000 personnel, and high-level discussions were held to address these security challenges.

Italy is ramping up its defense mechanisms with the creation of a new unit aimed at tackling hybrid warfare threats, according to a strategic report by Defence Minister Guido Crosetto. This move comes as Europe sees a rise in suspicious incidents, heightening concerns about regional vulnerability to Russian tactics involving both military and non-military strategies.

The proposed civilian and military unit is expected to develop a capability to predict and adapt to potential threats. Initially, the unit will employ 1,200-1,500 people, with plans to expand the workforce to 5,000. It will operate around the clock to combat the multifaceted nature of hybrid warfare.

High-level talks led by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, with participation from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and military leaders, have emphasized the dangers posed by hybrid threats to critical sectors such as energy infrastructure. The establishment of a center to fight disinformation and cognitive warfare tactics is also on the agenda. Russia, however, has denied any involvement in these recent incidents.

(With inputs from agencies.)