Carrier Strike Group Exercises Between the Indian and Italian Navies Off the West Coast

INN/New Delhi, @Infodeaofficial

From October 1–6, the Indian Navy and the Italian Navy participated in a historic bilateral maritime engagement that included the first-ever drill by their respective carrier strike groups (CSG).

During the harbour phase, the Indian Air Force participated in a Pre-Sail Planning Conference and Subject Matter Expert exchanges and other important professional engagements took place.

The two carriers, INS Vikramaditya and ITS Cavour, together with INS Visakhapatnam and ITS Alpino, led the two sea phases on October 5 and 6.

In order to emphasise joint operations, Command & Control capabilities, and improve interoperability, the two CSGs conducted intensive operations with their integrated fighter aircraft and helicopters for combined Large Force Engagements, Air Combat Missions, Helo Operations, and Search and Rescue missions. They also coordinated weapon firings and joint manoeuvres.

The IAF’s involvement in the historic exercise, which included combat missions and large force engagements with Italian CSG aircraft, was a crucial component.