Italy proposes European F-35 training center at Trapani to ease pressure on U.S. capacity amid allied fleet expansion through the 2030s

Italy has proposed establishing a European F-35 training center at Trapani Air Base to help relieve pressure on limited training capacity in the United States as allied fleets expand. Initial training could begin in late 2028, with full operational capability envisaged for late 2033. Washington supports the proposal, but no firm U.S. service resources have yet been committed, and key arrangements covering pooled aircraft, shared assets and participating countries’ responsibilities remain to be agreed.