Italy’s parliament has rejected opposition amendments to a space bill that aimed to prevent the government from acquiring satellite services from non-EU companies, including those owned by U.S. tech billionaire Elon Musk. The amendments, proposed by the Democratic Party (PD), were viewed by some as attempts to limit competition in favor of European entities.
The draft bill, which still requires approval from both houses of parliament, outlines a framework in which Italy’s communications would be transmitted solely through satellites owned by operators based in the EU or the Atlantic Alliance (NATO). The goal is to ensure secure satellite communications for Italian diplomats and officials working in high-risk regions.
PD lawmakers sought to impose additional restrictions, proposing that Italy only work with non-EU satellite providers when absolutely necessary. They also pushed for exclusive Italian ownership and control over encryption and software and hardware components used in such services. However, the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni opposed these amendments.
Among the companies that could potentially provide these satellite services is Starlink, a satellite internet service owned by Musk’s SpaceX. Starlink has been a key contender for securing the government contract. However, the PD has voiced concerns about working with Musk, a prominent ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, describing the proposed deal as an “anti-Musk” move.
Andrea Stroppa, a representative for Musk in Italy, criticized the opposition’s stance, describing it as a “crusade” against the billionaire and warning that Starlink is not a “toy for politicians.” Additionally, other companies like Franco-British satellite operator Eutelsat (ETL.PA) have also been in talks with the Italian government regarding the secure communications contracts.
The rejection of the amendments has sparked debate, with PD lawmaker Andrea Casu calling for better guarantees regarding the use of public funds, especially when foreign companies are involved.
