Italian defence firms have turned the Gulf’s security scramble into a multi‑billion euro significant windfall. State‑owned Leonardo secured a €320mn naval combat systems contract from Kuwait and a €200mn deal to supply four C‑27J maritime patrol aircraft to Saudi Arabia. Shipbuilder Fincantieri landed a €200mn lightweight‑torpedo order from Riyadh, underscoring a rapid diversification of Gulf procurement.

Abu Dhabi’s defence conglomerate Edge is buying a controlling stake in family‑run engine maker CMD, a move that transfers high‑performance propulsion tech to low‑cost surveillance and interceptor drones. The acquisition follows Edge’s March talks with CMD as Gulf states rushed to replace scarce U.S. munitions after Iran’s missile barrage, highlighting a shift toward European partners for critical defence capability.

Analysts note the deals signal a broader Gulf pivot away from reliance on U.S. arms after the conflict exposed supply gaps. With the UAE pledging €40bn of investment in Italy and talks underway on counter‑drone and underwater systems, Italian firms stand to capture a share of a market hungry for diversified partners. The contracts lock in at least €720mn of revenue for Italy this year.