🇮🇹 Italy Nuclear Warheads Hosted

Italy plays a role in NATO’s nuclear-sharing arrangement through two key sites: Aviano Air Base in the northeast and Ghedi Air Base in the north. These bases host U.S.-owned B61 tactical nuclear bombs under secure, dual-key NATO protocols. Storage and custody responsibilities are shared between U.S. Munitions Support Squadrons and Italian Air Force units, primarily the Italian Tornado wings at Ghedi, readying delivery via Italian or U.S. aircraft if wartime authorization is granted.

Warhead Inventory & Distribution

Italy's nuclear stockpile is the largest among European host nations, with approximately 35 B61 bombs deployed: around 20–30 at Aviano and 10–15 at Ghedi. Aviano alone features 18 underground WS3 vaults beneath protective aircraft shelters, though only about 11 remain actively armed. At Ghedi, 22 protective shelters house an estimated 20–40 bombs, secured and serviced by the USAF 704th MUNSS.

Security & Infrastructure Upgrades

Both bases have been significantly upgraded to modern U.S. nuclear security standards. Enhancements include double-fenced perimeters, improved Weapon Storage and Security Systems (WS3), advanced Alarm, Communication & Display systems, and upgraded tarmacs capable of handling C-17s and F-35s. Ghedi’s 704th MUNSS now operates from refurbished vaults with drive-through maintenance buildings, raising readiness and survivability.

Delivery Capability & Modernization

At Aviano, the U.S. 31st Fighter Wing's F-16 squadrons (510th & 555th) are certified for nuclear delivery and regularly train with BDU-38 dummy bombs as part of NATO exercises. In contrast, Ghedi relies on Italian PA-200 Tornado fighters from the 6th Stormo (102nd & 154th Squadrons), fully qualified for NATO nuclear missions. Both bases are transitioning toward future integration of the B61-12 guided bomb and nuclear-capable F-35A aircraft, with full certification expected by 2026.