Defence
UK and Italy enjoy particular close military ties. After the UK, Italy is the second largest European contributor to military operations overseas under the aegis of NATO, EU or UN. Our respective Corps level Headquarters (NRDC IT and HQ ARRC) recently completed consecutive 9 month tours in Afghanistan as HQ ISAF 8 and 9 respectively. Italy regards the UK as her military partner of choice and we both share the same views on important NATO and ESDP policy issues. Transformation of the Italian Armed Forces has been modelled on UK lines, albeit hampered by an inadequate Defence budget.
The task of the Defence Section is to promote the bilateral defence relationship and foster close co-operation. Through Defence Diplomacy, a specified military task, we develop and maintain links between Ministers, the Chiefs Of Staff, the staffs of the two Ministries of Defence and the single services across a range of activities and issues encompassing operations, training, personnel and equipment. Additionally, we represent UK interests in all defence-related areas, co-ordinate and organise commemorative ceremonies on a national and international scale. We arrange or coordinate visits by military units and personnel and also deal with enquiries from the public on all military matters. We assist the work of the Royal British Legion, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and provide help for numerous military pilgrimages.
In addition to their role in Rome, the Defence Attache is also accredited as the Defence Attache for Albania, and the Naval/Air Attache is accredited as the Defence Attache for Malta.
Diplomatic clearance applications
Adventurous Training
British armed forces personnel wishing to apply for diplomatic clearance for adventurous training may download guidance and the clearance form here (Microsoft Word document).
Battlefield Tours/Staff Rides
British armed forces personnel wishing to apply for diplomatic clearance for battlefield tours/staff rides may download guidance and the clearance form here (Microsoft Word document).Sports Activities
British armed forces personnel wishing to apply for diplomatic clearance for sports activities may download guidance and the clearance form here (Microsoft Word document).Winter Sports Activities
British armed forces personnel wishing to apply for diplomatic clearance for a winter sports activity may download guidance and the clearance form here (Microsoft Word document).
