U.S. Space Force Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman and Italian Air Force Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Luca Goretti have signed a new statement of understanding to expand their bilateral cooperation in space security. The signing occurred on Thursday during AeroSpace Power Conference 2025 in Rome.
The USSF said the agreement, which affirmed the U.S. and Italy’s commitment to defend the space domain, aims to improve interoperability between the two forces. It builds on an existing collaboration under the two nations’ Military Personnel Exchange Program, which allows for the reciprocal deployments of experts from each service.
Speaking at the AeroSpace event, Saltzman, a 2025 Wash100 awardee, emphasized the collaborative nature of space operations. “Spacepower is a team sport,” he said. “You need a team, working in concert, holding their shape and executing tactics with unity of effort.” The general added that the new agreement with Italy could become “an excellent foundation” for deeper cooperation in the future.
Saltzman also shared plans to develop a bilateral Country Action Plan to guide future partnership across several fronts, including space domain awareness, missile tracking and warning, personnel exchanges, and joint exercises. He explained that the forthcoming Space Force International Partnership Strategy will be the foundation for these efforts.
This bilateral agreement follows Washington’s recent push to strengthen space cooperation with NATO allies. Last March, U.S. Space Command headquarters hosted NATO representatives to enhance the alliance’s understanding of the space domain.
Gain deeper insights into space domain security at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 Air and Space Summit. Do not miss the chance to engage with defense leaders on the space industry’s challenges and opportunities. Register now.