Trapani-Birgi To Host First F-35 Training Center Outside U.S.

The airbase in Sicily will become the first location outside the U.S. for international F-35 pilot training, as Italy further consolidates its position as a global leader in advanced training.

On Sept. 8, 2025, for the first time, ten U.S. Air Force student pilots began the “Multiphase Jet Training” course at Decimomannu Air Base, Sardinia, home of the International Flight Training School (IFTS). The program, lasting about nine months, will lead to the award of military pilot wings on the T-346A (the Italian Air Force designation for the Leonardo M-346 Master). Contents The airbase in Sicily will become the first location outside the U.S. for international F-35 pilot training, as Italy further consolidates its position as a global leader in advanced training. Trapani selected for