U.S., Italy Sign ‘Star Wars’ Pact : Accord Enables Private Companies to Seek Deals

Representatives of the United States and Italy signed an agreement at the Pentagon today that will clear the way for Italian companies to participate in President Reagan’s “Star Wars” research program.

The signing of the memorandum of understanding was conducted behind closed doors and later announced to reporters. Following its previous practice, the Defense Department said the memorandum itself was classified and would not be released to the public.

Officials who asked not to be named said, however, that the agreement sets up procedures for interested Italian companies to learn of, and submit bids on, various Star Wars projects. It does not commit the Italian government itself to financing any research, the officials added.

The agreement makes Italy the fifth American ally to formally support the Star Wars research effort and the fourth to complete the process of negotiating a written pact.

Britain, West Germany and Israel have already signed research accords, and Japan announced last week its intention to allow Japanese private companies and public institutions to participate in the project.