Leonardo and Poste Italiane Move to Reshape Italy’s National Cloud Company in Major Ownership Shake-Up
Italy’s strategic cloud infrastructure sector is heading for a significant restructuring as defence giant Leonardo prepares to increase its stake in the country’s National Strategic Hub (PSN), while state-backed conglomerate Poste Italiane pursues plans to become the controlling shareholder.
The planned changes represent a major shift in the ownership and governance of Italy’s national cloud infrastructure project, which is responsible for storing and managing sensitive public administration data.
Leonardo Set to Increase Stake in Italy’s Strategic Cloud Hub
Italian defence and aerospace company Leonardo is reportedly preparing to acquire an additional 10% stake in the National Strategic Hub (PSN) from state-owned technology company Sogei.
The acquisition would increase Leonardo’s ownership from 25% to 35%, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The transaction could reportedly be finalized before the end of July.
Although the financial value of the deal is relatively modest, the move carries strategic importance due to PSN’s central role in Italy’s digital infrastructure and cybersecurity ecosystem.
Why the National Strategic Hub Matters
The National Strategic Hub serves as the backbone of Italy’s public sector cloud migration initiative. The project was launched to securely transfer sensitive government data and digital services onto protected cloud infrastructure.
The initiative is backed by approximately €2 billion ($2.3 billion) from the European Union’s post-pandemic recovery program, making it one of Italy’s most important digital transformation projects.
Current Strategic Importance of PSN
| Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | National Strategic Hub (PSN) |
| Purpose | Secure storage of sensitive public administration data |
| Funding Support | Around €2 billion from the EU Recovery Fund |
| Sector | Cloud computing and national digital infrastructure |
| Strategic Focus | Cybersecurity and government digital transformation |
Poste Italiane Eyes Majority Control
The broader restructuring plan could ultimately place Poste Italiane in control of the National Strategic Hub.
Earlier this year, Poste Italiane confirmed plans to acquire a 20% stake in PSN from state lender CDP. However, the company’s long-term objective reportedly extends much further, with ambitions to secure a 65% controlling stake in the national cloud operator.
This strategy aligns with Poste Italiane’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in Italy’s digital infrastructure and telecommunications sectors.
TIM Takeover Bid Could Accelerate Ownership Changes
A major factor behind Poste Italiane’s ambitions is its takeover offer involving TIM, currently the largest shareholder in PSN with a 45% stake.
If Poste succeeds in consolidating its position, it would gain substantial influence over Italy’s strategic cloud infrastructure, while allowing specialized industrial partners to take on more prominent roles within the project.
Industry sources suggest the restructuring is designed to gradually phase out investors that initially joined the project as financial backers rather than long-term strategic operators.
Potential Future Ownership Structure
| Shareholder | Current Position | Potential Future Role |
|---|---|---|
| Poste Italiane | Acquiring 20% stake | Targeting majority ownership of up to 65% |
| Leonardo | 25% stake | Expected to increase to 35% |
| TIM | Largest shareholder at 45% | Position could change following takeover developments |
| Sogei | Existing shareholder | Expected to reduce involvement |
New Governance Structure Also Under Discussion
Alongside ownership changes, discussions are underway regarding the future governance structure of the National Strategic Hub.
Under the proposals currently being considered, Poste Italiane would gain the authority to appoint the company’s chief executive officer, while Leonardo would nominate the chairperson.
Such an arrangement would reflect the strategic roles both organizations are expected to play in managing Italy’s critical cloud infrastructure.
Strategic Shift Signals New Phase for Italy’s Digital Infrastructure
The planned restructuring of the National Strategic Hub marks a new chapter for Italy’s national cloud strategy.
By consolidating ownership among industrial and strategic partners with expertise in telecommunications, cybersecurity, and defence technology, Italy aims to strengthen control over critical digital infrastructure while accelerating the country’s broader digital transformation agenda.
If completed, the deal would position Poste Italiane and Leonardo as the two dominant forces shaping the future of one of Europe‘s most important government cloud projects.
