Italy - Force Structures

摘要

While the president is ceremonial commander-in-chief of the armed forces, actual civilian control of the military lies with the Council of Ministers, whose authority is exercised through the minister of defense. During wartime, the prime minister becomes supreme military authority. The minister of defense is advised by the chief of the Defense General Staff and the chiefs of staff of the three services. The chief of the Defense General Staff exerts substantial powers in the area of operational deployment for the armed forces.