"Michelangelo Dome": Leonardo Unveils AI Defense System

Italian aerospace and defense giant Leonardo revealed plans on Thursday for a new multi-layered air defense system, dubbed the “Michelangelo Dome,” as European nations continue to bolster their military capabilities in response to threats from Russia and other potential adversaries.

The system is designed to protect critical infrastructure and areas of national or international importance, integrating platforms and equipment that operate across space, air, land, and sea domains.

“This is a significant model for security in Italy, Europe, and NATO countries in the coming years,” said Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani during a presentation in Rome. He added that the company, which is state-owned, will establish a dedicated team of Leonardo engineers and Italian armed forces personnel to design a framework tailored to defense requirements.

The Michelangelo Dome is capable of detecting, tracking, intercepting, and neutralizing incoming aerial threats, including missiles and drones, before they can cause damage. Analysts note its operational concept is similar to Israel’s Iron Dome system, which has been in service since 2011.

Following a phased implementation, the system is expected to be fully operational by 2028. Leonardo recently briefed top Italian military officials on the project’s strategic and technical plans.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized the importance of developing defenses against hybrid warfare, particularly threats targeting energy infrastructure and airports. Speaking from Paris after a meeting with French counterpart Catherine Fournier, he noted: “Each country can integrate its own technologies. Together, we can develop a highly advanced defense system capable of countering all types of threats, from hypersonic missiles to small drones, because today’s threats come in multiple forms.”

As tensions in Europe continue to drive military innovation, the Michelangelo Dome represents Italy’s strategic push to enhance NATO defense capabilities, ensuring robust protection against a wide spectrum of modern threats.