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Italy ,Israel 

Italy's decision to halt plans to purchase Blue Whale undersea drones, derived from an Israeli firm's platform, sheds light on the complex factors influencing defense procurement. Originally intending to buy three 'Blue Whale' drones from ELTA Systems, Italy's defense ministry suspended the program due to concerns over technological self-sufficiency and political sensitivities.

The proposed purchase, included in last year’s defense budget, aimed to bolster Italy's intelligence gathering, anti-submarine warfare, and mine countermeasures capabilities. However, doubts arose regarding the level of Italian industry involvement and political apprehensions over procuring arms from Israel, prompting a reassessment of the procurement plan.

Italy's evolving stance in sub-sea warfare, exemplified by initiatives like the new center at La Spezia, underscores the nation’s commitment to enhancing defense capabilities through domestic innovation and collaboration with industry and academia. While Italy’s right-wing government maintains pro-Israel sentiments, opposition voices within parliament have expressed reservations, particularly in light of recent events in Gaza. This divergence of opinion, combined with concerns over the performance and cost-effectiveness of the Blue Whale platform, led to the decision to postpone the purchase.

This outcome underscores the complexities inherent in defense procurement decisions, where strategic, technological, and political considerations intersect. As Italy navigates these complexities, the episode underscores the importance of balancing national security imperatives with broader geopolitical sensitivities.