An Italian carrier strike group will traverse the South China Sea en route to the Philippines following joint military exercises in Australia. This marks the group’s inaugural deployment to the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting growing international interest in the contested waters.
Italian Navy’s Indo-Pacific Deployment
The Italian aircraft carrier Cavour is currently docked in Darwin, northern Australia, participating in Exercise Pitch Black. This exercise involves 20 nations, including the United States, Britain, Japan, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. Rear Admiral Giancarlo Ciappina noted that this is the first time an aircraft carrier has joined these drills.
The Italian contingent includes 23 jets, with eight F-35B stealth fighters, engaging in dogfights, strikes, and other operations over vast, unpopulated northern Australian landscapes. Captain Dario Castelli, the carrier air wing commander, emphasized the logistical and operational benefits of deploying far from home.
Strategic Transit And Humanitarian Mission
After concluding exercises on August 2, the Italian strike group, comprising 1,200 personnel, will proceed to Guam and Japan before transiting the South China Sea to the Philippines. Despite the region’s rising tensions, Ciappina clarified that the group does not intend to conduct freedom of navigation operations.
In the Philippines, Cavour will undertake humanitarian efforts, including performing surgeries on children in Manila’s port. “An aircraft carrier—just being present somewhere, it has an effect, it can influence. It is a very powerful tool,” Ciappina remarked.
Regional Tensions And International Interests
The South China Sea is a strategic waterway through which about 40% of Europe’s foreign trade flows. China’s expansive territorial claims conflict with those of its neighbours, including the Philippines, which continues to challenge China’s presence within its exclusive economic zone.
Exercise Pitch Black allows Italy to collaborate closely with other F-35 operating nations, enhancing its tactical capabilities and regional understanding. Although this deployment is not a NATO mission, Italy has coordinated with French and British navies to maintain significant capacity in the Mediterranean.
Global Maritime Cooperation
Ciappina underscored the importance of global maritime presence, stating, “Everything is connected… that’s why we have to also be present in the Pacific now.” The deployment reinforces Italy’s commitment to international cooperation and maritime security, underscoring the interconnected nature of global security concerns.
With Inputs from Reuters
