1. Introduction
The Italian Intelligence Community (IIC) encompasses a sophisticated network of military and civilian agencies dedicated to safeguarding Italy’s national security and advancing its foreign policy interests. The IIC is composed of the Information System for the Security of the Republic and the Armed Forces. Both under the guidance of the President of the Council of Ministers, currently Giorgia Meloni. Through strategic collaboration, these entities adeptly navigate the complexities of global intelligence operations to protect and promote the well-being of Italy and its allies. (source)
2. History and Evolution of the IIC
2.1 Timeline of the Italian Intelligence Community
2.1.1 Origins and Early Intelligence Efforts:
The journey of Italy’s intelligence community began in the 19th century with the Risorgimento, where initial intelligence activities were informal and primarily aimed at supporting the unification of Italy. This period set the stage for more structured intelligence efforts, particularly with the formation of intelligence and military bodies. World War I marked a significant evolution in Italy’s intelligence efforts. Indeed, the establishment of formal intelligence units within the military indicated the institutional beginning of intelligence operations in the country. The creation of the Servizio Informazioni Militare (SIM) in 1925 during the Fascist regime further institutionalised military intelligence. Throughout World War II, the SIM continued its operations, with intelligence efforts intensifying due to the global conflict. (source)
2.1.2 Post-World War II Developments:
The aftermath of World War II saw further evolution in Italy’s intelligence framework. In 1949, the Servizio Informazioni Forze Armate (SIFAR) was established in collaboration with the U.S. government. It was tasked with both domestic and foreign military intelligence duties. This transitioned into the Servizio Informazioni Difesa (SID) in 1965, aiming for a more unified approach to defence intelligence. The 1977 reform, split SID into two separate entities: the Servizio per le Informazioni e la Sicurezza Militare (SISMI) for military intelligence and the Servizio per le Informazioni e la Sicurezza Democratica (SISDE) for civil intelligence operations. (source)
2.1.3 1997 Reform and Beyond:
The intelligence landscape in Italy saw another major reform in 1997 with the establishment of the Centro Intelligence Interforze (CII). CII served as the joint operational intelligence service for the Italian military. And, for the Reparto Informazioni e Sicurezza (RIS), a key component of military intelligence activities. The 2007 reform introduced a modern intelligence structure, establishing the Inter-ministerial Committee for the Security of the Republic (CISR), Agenzia Informazioni e Sicurezza Esterna (AISE), Agenzia Informazioni e Sicurezza Interna (AISI), and the Dipartimento delle Informazioni per la Sicurezza (DIS) to coordinate between AISE and AISI. (source) (source)
2.1.4 Recent Developments and Challenges:
In 2021, Italy introduced a cybersecurity reform with the creation of the Agenzia per la Cybersicurezza Nazionale (ACN). ACN plays a critical role in safeguarding Italy’s cybersecurity infrastructure and coordinating efforts against cyber threats and vulnerabilities. This reform, along with the ongoing evolution of Italy’s intelligence community in response to emerging global security challenges like cyber threats and international terrorism, demonstrates Italy’s commitment to adapting its intelligence capabilities to meet contemporary threats. (source)
2.2 Symbols and Identity
In 2009, the Information System for the Security of the Republic adopted its own logo. The logo carries specific usage methods to protect its institutional and symbolic value.
The logo stands as: ”a symbol of lightness and freedom that, through a unique, fluid, and uninterrupted sign, represents the speed with which information converges from multiple bodies to the central one”. (sources)
The symbol aims at performing its distinctive function of identification and recognition of the System in its various components. And, unites these in a harmonious and dynamic whole, each with its own functions and peculiarities, united in the common goal of ensuring security information to safeguard the Republic and its democratic institutions.
3. IIC Organisational Structure
3.1 Broader Government Context
3.1.1 The Role of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Within the Italian Intelligence Community (IIC), the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, currently led by Giorgia Meloni, plays a crucial role in setting national security policies. As the principal overseer, the President ensures that intelligence operations align with Italy’s strategic interests. There is a strong emphasis on the integration of efforts across various intelligence entities to maintain national security and uphold democratic values. (source)
3.1.2 Department of Information Security (DIS) Coordination
The Department of Information Security (DIS) acts as the central coordinating body within the IIC. In essence, it orchestrates collaboration among Italy’s intelligence agencies. And, ensures strategic alignment, efficient resource allocation, and operational integration between domestic and foreign intelligence operations. This highlights the importance of cohesive action in addressing modern threats like cyber warfare and global terrorism. (source)
3.2 Financing and Resources
The Italian Intelligence Community (IIC) is supported by a budget catering to both military and civilian intelligence needs. Allocations are undisclosed for security reasons.
3.2.1 Civilian Intelligence Funding:
In 2023, civilian intelligence, including AISE, AISI, and DIS, was allocated approximately €872 million for counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and foreign intelligence. DIS oversees the distribution to ensure comprehensive security coverage. (source).
3.2.2 Military Intelligence Funding:
The military intelligence budget is part of Italy’s €27.5 billion defence budget for 2023. A portion is designated for intelligence operations within the Armed Forces, CII, and RIS. In essence, this portion bolsters defence capabilities through intelligence gathering and analysis. (source)
3.3 Key Figures
3.3.1 General Giovanni Caravelli: Director of the External Intelligence and Security Agency (AISE) (2020-Present)
Caravelli has had a distinguished career in the Italian Army, rising to the rank of Army Corps General. Before his current role, he served as the Deputy Director of AISE from August 25, 2014, with delegated functions. He assumed leadership of AISE on May 18, 2020, bringing extensive experience from his military service, including strategic roles within Italian intelligence and security operations. (source)
3.3.2 General Mario Parente: Director of the Internal Intelligence and Security Agency (AISI) (2016-Present)
Parente has had a notable career in the Carabinieri before advancing to significant positions within Italian security services. Appointed as the director of AISI on April 29, 2016, by the Council of Ministers, he has since led Italy’s domestic intelligence efforts with a focus on counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and internal security challenges. His leadership in AISI reflects a broad range of experience in national security and intelligence operations. (source)
3.3.3 Elisabetta Belloni: Director of the Department of Information Security (DIS) (2021-Present)
Belloni, with a distinguished career in the Italian diplomatic service, is the first woman to lead the Department of Information Security. Her extensive background includes serving as Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, showcasing her expertise in international relations and security policies. Belloni oversees the coordination and strategic direction of Italy’s intelligence community. And, emphasises the integration of domestic and foreign intelligence efforts to safeguard national security. (source)
4. Members of the Italian Intelligence Community
4.1 Departments of the Italian Intelligence Community
4.1.1 Dipartimento delle Informazioni per la Sicurezza (DIS)
The DIS serves as the central body overseeing Italy’s intelligence structure, coordinating between various intelligence agencies to ensure national security. It plays a critical role in strategic intelligence analysis, policy formulation, and inter-agency collaboration. DIS is instrumental in integrating Italy’s domestic and foreign intelligence efforts. They ensure a cohesive approach to addressing security challenges and threats. (source)
4.1.2 Information and Security Department (RIS)
The Information and Security Department (RIS) operates within the Italian Defense General Staff, focusing on military intelligence. It is responsible for collecting, analysing, and disseminating intelligence related to national defence and security. RIS supports strategic decision-making processes and provides intelligence support to military operations. And, contributes to the overall situational awareness and operational readiness of the Italian Armed Forces. (source)
4.2 Civilian Agencies
4.2.1 The Inter-ministerial Committee for the Security of the Republic (CISR)
CISR is a high-level body that coordinates Italy’s national security and intelligence policies. It advises the Prime Minister and the government on security matters, shaping Italy’s defence and intelligence strategies. CISR’s role encompasses oversight of the intelligence community’s operations, ensuring alignment with national interests and security objectives. (source)
4.2.2 External Intelligence and Security Agency (AISE)
AISE is tasked with foreign intelligence gathering, espionage, and counterespionage outside Italy. It contributes to national security by monitoring international threats, including terrorism, espionage, and cyber threats. AISE operates globally, collaborating with international partners to gather intelligence that informs Italy’s foreign policy and national defence strategies. (source)
4.2.3 Internal Intelligence and Security Agency (AISI)
AISI focuses on domestic intelligence within Italy, dealing with internal security threats such as terrorism, espionage, organised crime, and subversion. It works to safeguard Italy’s democratic institutions, critical infrastructure, and public safety. AISI’s operations include counterintelligence activities, cybersecurity measures, and collaboration with law enforcement to prevent and respond to threats against national security. (source)
4.2.4 National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN)
ACN leads Italy’s efforts in protecting against cyber threats and enhancing the country’s cybersecurity posture. It coordinates the defence of critical information infrastructure from cyberattacks, working closely with public, private, and international partners. ACN enhances the Italian Intelligence Community by gathering and analysing cyber threat intelligence. Additionally, it shares crucial information on cybersecurity threats with other agencies and critical sectors, and coordinating national incident responses to cyberattacks. It plays a pivotal role in developing cyber defence strategies and fostering international cooperation to combat global cyber threats. (source)
4.2.5 Unità di Informazione Finanziaria per l’Italia (Financial Intelligence Unit for Italy) (UIFI)
UIFI, or the Financial Intelligence Unit for Italy, plays a crucial role in the country’s efforts to combat money laundering and financing of terrorism. As a central national agency, the UIFI is responsible for collecting, analysing, and disseminating financial intelligence and information related to potential financial crimes. Indeed, by closely monitoring suspicious financial transactions and activities within Italy’s financial system, the UIFI aids in identifying and preventing illicit financial flows that could undermine national security and economic stability. This unit works in collaboration with the Financial Police. (source)
4.3 Military Agencies
4.3.1 Centro Intelligence Interforze (Joint Military Intelligence Center) (CII)
The CII integrates intelligence efforts across the Italian Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Carabinieri. It facilitates the sharing of intelligence among military branches to enhance joint operational effectiveness. CII supports defence planning, operations, and decision-making by providing comprehensive military intelligence analysis. (source)
4.3.2 Carabinieri
The Carabinieri, a military force with law enforcement duties, including domestic policing and international peacekeeping missions, has specialised units for intelligence operations focusing on counterterrorism, organised crime, and public security. Chiefly, the Gruppo di Intervento Speciale (GIS) stands out for its elite counterterrorism capabilities and intelligence activities. The GIS is adept at gathering intelligence on terrorist threats and conducting high-risk operations, both domestically and internationally, significantly contributing to Italy’s national and global security posture. This dual military-police role of the Carabinieri, bolstered by the GIS’s expertise, enables robust operations within Italy and abroad. (source)
4.3.3 Esercito (Army)
The Italian Army’s intelligence components concentrate on land-based surveillance, reconnaissance, and information gathering to support military operations and national defence. Using human intelligence (HUMINT), signals intelligence (SIGINT), and imagery intelligence (IMINT), the Army achieves a multi-dimensional understanding of potential threats and operational environments. Integral to these efforts is the 9th Paratrooper Assault Regiment “Col Moschin,” an elite special forces unit known for its advanced reconnaissance capabilities and direct action missions. Thus, the Col Moschin forces are highly trained in gathering critical intelligence behind enemy lines and conducting specialised operations, thereby enhancing the Army’s situational awareness and strategic decision-making. (source)
4.3.4 Aeronautica Militare (Air Force)
The Italian Air Force conducts aerial reconnaissance and surveillance missions to monitor airspace and gather intelligence critical for national security. It utilises advanced aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and satellite systems equipped with sophisticated sensors for electronic warfare, signals intelligence (SIGINT), and imagery analysis. Complementing these capabilities, the 17º Stormo Incursori, the Air Force’s special forces unit, specialises in conducting behind-enemy-lines operations to secure vital intelligence and carry out precision strikes. Their expertise in air-based special operations and intelligence gathering further strengthens the Air Force’s ability to assess threats and inform strategic decisions across multiple domains. (source)
4.3.5 Marina Militare (Navy)
The Italian Navy’s intelligence efforts are centred on maritime security, encompassing naval operations, maritime surveillance, and anti-piracy measures. It gathers and analyses information on naval threats, maritime traffic, and environmental hazards to safeguard Italy’s territorial waters and bolster global maritime security. Integral to these operations is the COMSUBIN’s Teseo Tesei unit, an elite group specialising in underwater and amphibious intelligence activities. This force conducts advanced reconnaissance, underwater sabotage, and information gathering missions, significantly enhancing the Navy’s intelligence capability. (source)
4.4 Police and Law Enforcement Agencies
4.4.1 Polizia di Stato (National Police)
The State Police is a civilian law enforcement agency that plays a significant role in counterterrorism, cybercrime investigation, and public order. It has specialised units dedicated to intelligence gathering on criminal networks, terrorist activities, and cyber threats, working closely with other Italian and international intelligence and security services to protect national security. Among these units, the Divisione Investigazioni Generali e Operazioni Speciali (DIGOS), or General Investigations and Special Operations Division, stands out for its focus on domestic security. DIGOS is instrumental in conducting in-depth investigations into extremism, terrorism, and subversive activities, utilising a wide array of intelligence resources to preemptively identify and neutralise threats to Italy’s public safety and democratic integrity. (source)
4.4.2 Polizia Postale e delle comunicazioni (Postal Police)
The Postal Police specialise in combating cybercrime and ensuring the security of information and communication technologies. It investigates crimes involving the internet, telecommunications, and postal services, including online fraud, cyberbullying, and cyberterrorism. The Postal Police play a crucial role in Italy’s cybersecurity efforts, protecting citizens and infrastructure from digital threats. In addition to these responsibilities, the Postal Police also engage in intelligence activities that involve the monitoring and analysis of online communications and digital footprints to identify emerging cyber threats and potential cybercriminal networks. (source)
4.4.3 Guardia di Finanza (Financial Police)
The Guardia di Finanza is a militarised law enforcement agency responsible for financial policing. Its intelligence operations target economic crimes such as tax evasion, money laundering, and financial fraud that can threaten Italy’s economic stability and security. The agency employs financial intelligence (FININT) to support its investigative activities and collaborate with other national security agencies. (source)
5. Operations and Intelligence within the Italian Intelligence Community
The Italian Intelligence Community (IIC) has played a significant role in addressing both domestic and international security challenges. Through a series of operations and intelligence activities, the IIC has evolved, adapting to the changing landscape of global and national threats. This section outlines key operations and their impact on the development of Italian intelligence capabilities.
5.1 The Years of Lead (Anni di Piombo)
Between the late 1960s and the 1980s, Italy faced a period of intense domestic terrorism known as the “Years of Lead.” Left-wing and right-wing extremist groups carried out bombings, assassinations, and kidnappings. This era underscored the importance of domestic intelligence operations in counterterrorism. The IIC’s response involved enhancing human intelligence (HUMINT) capabilities and developing counterterrorism strategies that emphasised infiltration and disruption of terrorist networks. These efforts led to significant reforms in intelligence sharing and coordination within Italy’s security services. (source)
5.2 The Fight Against the Mafia
In the 1980s and 1990s, Italy intensified its fight against organised crime, particularly against the Sicilian Mafia. This period saw the assassination of anti-Mafia judges Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, events that became a turning point for Italian intelligence. The IIC focused on improving signals intelligence (SIGINT) and financial intelligence (FININT) to dismantle Mafia networks. Collaborative efforts between law enforcement and intelligence agencies, including the use of state witnesses, were crucial in these operations. This era highlighted the need for integrated intelligence efforts in combating organised crime. (source)
5.3 The War in Iraq
Italy’s involvement in the Iraq War required the IIC to extend its intelligence operations abroad, focusing on gathering actionable intelligence to support Italian military efforts and ensure the safety of deployed personnel. The experience in Iraq enhanced Italy’s capabilities in imagery intelligence (IMINT) and geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), vital for monitoring conflict zones. The war also underscored the importance of international intelligence cooperation, particularly with NATO allies. (source)
5.4 The War in Afghanistan
Similar to its role in Iraq, the Italian Intelligence Community contributed to NATO-led operations in Afghanistan by providing critical intelligence on terrorist activities, terrain analysis, and threat assessments. The Afghanistan experience further developed Italy’s expertise in human terrain analysis and cultural intelligence (CULINT), essential for understanding complex tribal dynamics and supporting counterinsurgency operations. (source)
5.5 The Balkans Conflict
During the conflict in the Balkans, Italy played a strategic role in peacekeeping and intelligence operations due to its geographical proximity and historical ties to the region. The IIC focused on human intelligence (HUMINT) to monitor ethnic tensions, support diplomatic efforts, and facilitate humanitarian aid. The Balkans conflict highlighted the importance of human intelligence in peacekeeping operations and the need for close cooperation between military and civilian intelligence agencies. (source)
5.6 Evolution of Italian Intelligence
These operations demonstrate the IIC’s adaptability to a range of security challenges, from domestic terrorism to international conflicts. Key developments include:
- Enhanced Interagency Collaboration: Learning from past challenges, the IIC has improved information sharing and coordination among its various branches.
- Diversification of Intelligence Capabilities: Experiences from these operations have led to a more comprehensive approach to intelligence gathering, incorporating HUMINT, SIGINT, IMINT, GEOINT, FININT, and CULINT.
- International Cooperation: Italy has recognised the value of working with international partners, leading to stronger ties with NATO, EUROPOL, and other international intelligence agencies.
- Focus on Cybersecurity: Recognising the evolving nature of threats, there has been a significant emphasis on developing cybersecurity capabilities within the IIC.
These operations have not only shaped Italy’s approach to national and international security but have also led to substantial reforms within the Italian Intelligence Community, enhancing its capacity to address future threats.
6.0 Oversight and Accountability
6.1 Legal Framework
The legal framework governing intelligence activities in Italy is detailed and designed to ensure that intelligence operations are carried out within a strict legal and ethical framework. Key components of this framework include:
- Legislative Decree No. 216 of 1974: This decree laid the foundational legal structure for the organisation and function of Italy’s intelligence services, although it has been significantly updated by Law No. 124/2007 to reflect modern intelligence needs and challenges.
- Law No. 124 of 2007: This pivotal law restructured the Italian intelligence community, defining the roles and responsibilities of the AISE (External Intelligence and Security Agency) and AISI (Internal Intelligence and Security Agency), under the coordination of the Department of Information Security (DIS). It also established protocols for the operation and oversight of intelligence activities, emphasising accountability and respect for legal norms. (source)
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): As part of the European Union, Italy adheres to GDPR standards, which impact how intelligence agencies handle personal data. This includes ensuring data protection and privacy during surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations. (source)
6.2 Oversight Bodies
The oversight of Italy’s intelligence services involves a combination of parliamentary and judicial mechanisms, designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to the law:
- Parliamentary Oversight – COPASIR (Comitato Parlamentare per la Sicurezza della Repubblica): This committee plays a crucial role in overseeing the intelligence services, with powers that include the ability to declassify state secrets (with unanimous agreement among its members) and access to judicial and banking documents that are otherwise confidential. COPASIR reviews reports from intelligence agencies, assesses their operations, and can initiate investigations into specific actions or policies to ensure they align with national security needs and legal standards. (source)
- Judicial Oversight: The Italian judicial system provides a critical layer of oversight, especially concerning surveillance activities. Intelligence operations that involve intercepting communications or other forms of surveillance require authorisation from a judge, who evaluates the necessity and proportionality of such measures in relation to national security objectives. This process ensures that intelligence activities do not infringe upon individual rights without due cause and legal justification. (source)
These oversight mechanisms are essential for maintaining a balance between effective intelligence operations and the protection of civil liberties. They provide a structured approach for reviewing and regulating the activities of Italy’s intelligence agencies, ensuring they operate within the bounds of the law while effectively addressing national security challenges.
7.0 Challenges and Future Directions for the IIC
7.1 Modern Threats
The Italian Intelligence Community is confronted with an increasing broad array of modern threats that require dynamic and multifaceted responses. Cybersecurity threats have emerged as a primary concern, with state and non-state actors exploiting the means of digitalisation to conduct espionage, disrupt critical infrastructure, and spread disinformation. Terrorism remains a persistent threat, with the evolution of existing domestic and international terrorist groups coupled with the emergence of new organisations requiring constant vigilance and adaptation. Additionally, the rapid pace of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and Quantum Computing, presents both opportunities and challenges for intelligence operations. The Italian Intelligence Community necessitates fostering research and policy adjustments to harness these technologies effectively while mitigating their potential misuse. (source) (source)
7.2 Adaptation and Modernisation
As the emergence of these modern threats loom on the national and international security horizons, Italy’s intelligence community is actively pursuing adaptation and modernisation strategies. Efforts are underway to enhance cybersecurity capabilities, including the strengthening of national cyber defences, the development of advanced cyber intelligence gathering techniques, and the promotion of public-private partnerships to secure critical infrastructure. The integration of emerging technologies into intelligence workflows is also a key focus, with initiatives aimed at leveraging AI for data analysis and threat detection to improve operational efficiency and decision-making processes. Moreover, the Italian intelligence community is investing in training and development programs to equip its personnel with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape and counter sophisticated threats effectively. (source) (source)
These efforts underscore Italy’s commitment to modernising its intelligence capabilities in the face of complex global challenges. By embracing technological innovation, fostering international cooperation, and prioritising the development of its human capital, the Italian Intelligence Community aims to remain agile and responsive to protect national security interests in an increasingly uncertain world.
