I have a merchandising company, can I create items and clothes such as overalls, t-shirts, etc. with Army department logos?
Can I publish the logos of Army or armed force units on my site?
Let us clarify. The use of coats of arms and emblems and any distinctive sign of the Armed Forces is regulated by Decree No. 162 of 25 July 2012.
The regulation in question is based on various articles of the Constitution, laws, decrees and codes that establish the basis for the exclusive use by the Italian Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force and Carabinieri) of their names, coats of arms, emblems and other distinctive signs.
These elements are defined in detail and include both current and historical elements, reflecting military heritage and prestige. Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence may grant the temporary use of these elements to third parties, both public and private, through sponsorship contracts or similar, provided that such use does not compromise the image or institutional purposes of the Armed Forces. Particular attention is given to the compatibility of the proposed use with the prestige and purposes of the Armed Forces, and specific contractual terms are provided for, including compensation, which may be in cash or in the form of goods and services.
The Ministry also verifies that the use of the distinctive signs complies with the terms of the contract, with the possibility of checks and penalties in the event of non-compliance. In some cases, use may be granted free of charge for events sponsored by the Ministry or for reasons of public interest. Income from these economic activities, unless managed through the company Difesa Servizi S.p.A. or compensated with goods and services, is paid to the State.
Without the authorisation of the Ministry of Defence, however, the commercial use of the emblems contained in d.l. 162 is absolutely forbidden.
Can we talk about a military department on our blog, in social networks and on any platform?
Absolutely, the right of the press applies here. But one must always remember that the Ministry of Defence reserves the right to take legal action against those who damage its prestige and image.
We attach to this link the pdf of decree no. 162 of 25 July 2012.
