16 July 2024
In an historic first, the Italian Navy's flagship, the aircraft carrier Cavour, has arrived in Australia to participate in Exercise Pitch Black, representing a significant milestone for Italy's naval operations in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Cavour, measuring 244m long and equipped with advanced aircraft, including the F-35B and AV-8B Harrier II Plus, underscores Italy's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and strengthening international partnerships.
Commanding Officer Cavour Captain Milos Argenton highlighted the strategic importance of Italy's participation in Pitch Black, emphasising the exercise’s role in fostering interoperability and readiness in a challenging operational environment.
“This is the first time that Italy has joined Exercise Pitch Black and the first time an aircraft carrier has participated,” Captain Argenton said.
“The Cavour has travelled across the Atlantic and around Africa, but this is the first time it has travelled into the Indo-Pacific region.
“It is a multi-capable ship that accommodates over 600 people, 13 jets and two NH90 helicopters.”
Underlining the significance of this deployment for Italy’s national interests and economic ties in the Indo-Pacific, the Italian Navy has also brought the Alpino frigate for the duration of Pitch Black.
Carrier Strike Group Commander from the Italian Navy, Rear Admiral Giancarlo Ciappina, expressed enthusiasm about Pitch Black and its importance for Italy.
“Exercise Pitch Black is a milestone as we declare our initial operational aircraft capability, working alongside Australia. Learning to fly and work together is a massive achievement,” Rear Admiral Ciappina said.
“Being a part of this exercise is already a great success. By bringing partner nations together, we grow our mutual knowledge, relationships and friendships.”
With personnel deployed in Darwin, the Italian Navy aims to enhance operational readiness and expand collaborative efforts with allied forces, including the Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Australian Navy.
Captain Dario Castelli, responsible for Cavour’s Air Wing operations, said the Italian Navy was aiming to increase its sortie generation rate and enhance interoperability with international partners.
“Exercise Pitch Black represents a milestone, as it is the largest aerial exercise the Italian Navy has ever participated in,” he said.
Cavour’s participation in Pitch Black symbolises Italy’s commitment to global security and collaborative defence efforts. Naval forces from various nations converge in Australia to engage in joint training and this operational exercise.
“Exercise Pitch Black is a huge opportunity for us to explore with many international partners, allies and friends,” Rear Admiral Ciappina said.
“I feel very honoured to represent Italy, the Italian Navy and the crews of the Carrier Strike Group.
“We are here ready to train together and grow our knowledge with our partner nations.”
Pitch Black promises to enhance military readiness and serve as a testament to the enduring partnerships and shared values among nations committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“We thank Australia for welcoming us and letting us work together,” Captain Argenton said.
