About us

One step beyond. Since 1946.

Trusted partner of the Italian defence market since 1946. AP Defence develops technology and connects international manufacturers with Italian industry and institutions.

For 80 years, AP Defence, founded in Genoa as Angelo Podestà, has been a trusted partner of the largest players in the Italian market, military and civilian. We have supplied or maintained navigation systems, ammunition, night vision systems and weapon systems for the Ministry of Defence and for non-military customers.

Timeline

Eighty
years, in order

1946

Founded in Genoa

Papirio Podestà founds the company, starting with the marketing, installation and maintenance of naval supplies. It has been family-run ever since.

1960

Civil and military naval fields

The company begins marketing and assisting both civil and military naval systems, backed by partnerships with leading foreign companies.

1980

Land military sector

The portfolio expands beyond the sea to navigation, communication and terrestrial vision systems for land forces.

2000

Defence Administration

Working with a large ammunition company, the company becomes a primary interface for the Italian Army and Navy. Ties with the Air Force grow stronger.

2018

Research & Development

Focus on defence research and development, funded by the National Military Research Plans.

2026

AP Defence

Angelo Podestà becomes AP Defence. Production develops the technology, and Distribution connects international manufacturers with Italian industry.

AP Defence today

Production develops. Distribution connects.

AP Defence Production develops technology for the Armed Forces. AP Defence Distribution brings leading manufacturers to Italy.

AP Defence Production

Research and development

Over the last decade we have invested in innovation for military applications. Funded by the National Military Research Plans, we deliver systems now in operational use with the Armed Forces, such as VUHLCAN, MAHRS and HYDRA

AP Defence Distribution

Representation and supply

For decades we have brought leading international manufacturers to the Italian defence market. We supply military and civil systems, from weapons and ammunition to naval and navigation equipment, connecting manufacturers with industry and institutions.

Our Team