The recent departure of the Alliance research vessels marks a significant milestone for the Italian Navy as it expands its operations beyond the Mediterranean Sea. With 11 ships now involved in activities outside the region, including hydro-oceanographic research in the Arctic Ocean, the Italian Navy’s reach extends beyond traditional geopolitical boundaries
A record commitment. With the recent departure of the Alliance research vessels to conduct hydro-oceanographic and research activities in the Arctic Ocean, the number of Italian Navy ships engaged in activities outside the Mediterranean Sea has reached 11, extending beyond the geopolitical and geostrategic concept of the Enlarged Mediterranean.
- The frigate Fasan is in North America for joint training activities with the US Navy.
- The frigate Margottini is in the North Sea for the ballistic missile defense exercise Formidable Shield (FOSH).
- The amphibious ship San Marco is in Northern Europe, participating in a multinational joint exercise that will see the first activation of the Littoral Expeditionary Group (LEG).
- The frigate Rizzo is in the Indian Ocean for the maritime security operation Agenor.
- The multi-purpose offshore patrol vessel Morosini is in the South China Sea for the Indo-Pacific campaign.
- The offshore patrol vessel Borsini is in the Gulf of Guinea for the anti-piracy operation Gabinia.
- The destroyer Duilio is in the North Sea conducting activities with Allied Navies.
- The three coastal patrol vessels of the Esploratore class are in Sinai as part of the Multinational Force & Observers (MFO).
The Naval Aviation deployment. There are also eight Naval Aviation helicopters and six boarding teams from the San Marco Marine Brigade embarked on ships outside the Mediterranean. The total personnel involved, including the crews, is over 1,200 men and women.
- This commitment outside the narrow straits aligns with the established active participation in ongoing international operations in the Mediterranean basin, such as the EU’s Irini, NATO’s Sea Guardian and Noble Shield, and national activities, including Fisheries Surveillance and the Mediterranean Safe and Secure operations.
- Thus, the Navy’s action at sea, below the sea, and from the ocean continues to protect national interests and safeguard maritime security in all areas of primary interest.
