U.S. and Italian Navies Make Waves with Historic Indo-Pacific Multi-Large Deck Operation

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and the Cavour Carrier Strike Group concluded their inaugural bilateral Multi-Large Deck Event (MLDE) in the Indo-Pacific on August 9. This historic event, executed by the U.S. Navy and Italian Navy, brought together more than 7,500 sailors and marines from both nations for joint operations.

The exercise aimed to enhance maritime communication, air warfare, and cross-deck flight operations. According to Rear Adm. Adan Cruz, this kind of collaboration is critical for maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. “Our interoperability is practiced and rehearsed to build the relationships necessary for successful MLDEs,” he said.

During the event, Rear Adm. Giancarlo Ciappina visited the USS Abraham Lincoln to discuss interoperability. Ciappina emphasized the strategic importance of the MLDE, underscoring that such activities enhance NATO’s global operational capabilities and contribute to maritime security and economic prosperity.

Ships involved in the MLDE comprised of the USS Abraham Lincoln, USS Spruance, and USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., along with the ITS Cavour and ITS Alpino from the Italian Navy. Aircraft participating included MH-60S and MH-60R Sea Hawks, F/A-18E & F Super Hornets, E/A-18G Growlers, F-35C Lightning II, E-2D Hawkeye, and Italian F-35B Lightning II jets.

The two admirals conducted a virtual conditions check on August 8 to ensure readiness. The exercise featured the exchange of liaison officers and coordinated flight operations and ship maneuvers on August 9.

Admiral Ciappina expressed his gratitude for the professionalism displayed by CSG 3. “This cooperation is both effective and profitable, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to Adm. Cruz and his team,” he concluded.

These coordinated maritime engagements are part of the U.S. Navy’s ongoing efforts in the Indo-Pacific. U.S. naval forces are crucial in ensuring maritime security and lawful commerce in the region.

The last MLDE for CSG 3 occurred in January 2022 with the Carl Vinson Strike Group in the South China Sea. This occasion marks the first collaboration of this kind with the Italian Navy in the Indo-Pacific.

CSG-3’s current deployment aims to maintain regional security, keep sea lanes open, and improve combined readiness. With a network of allies and partners, U.S. naval forces are essential for ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight.

For more news from CSG-3, visit Arizonanews.org.