Amici e Alleati – A Tale of Friendship and Alliance

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) is underway completing its final deployment preparations, including the intensive Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). This crucial phase is part of the pre-deployment regimen for Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8. Accompanying the Truman is Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, consisting of eight aviation squadrons, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28, featuring two Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers and a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser.

However, one unique aspect stands out in this exercise: the inclusion of the Italian Navy’s Carlo Bergamini-class frigate, ITS Carabiniere (F 593). “Working side by side with an allied force is very motivating, especially with a U.S. Carrier Strike Group,” stated Cmdr. Marco Felici, commanding officer of ITS Carabiniere. Felici praised the cooperative venture as an invaluable opportunity to experience different operational environments while aiming for common goals.

During COMPTUEX, ITS Carabiniere integrated as a full member of the Harry S. Truman CSG. This integration helped forge personal relationships and honed tactical skills, enhancing the collective defense capabilities of NATO allies. COMPTUEXs simulate real-world multi-domain scenarios, offering training, mentorship, and assessment to increase proficiency and pinpoint areas for improvement. Interoperability with allies like Italy is a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy’s operational strategy.

Felici highlighted the exercise’s success, noting, “The integration further strengthens and highlights a unity of intent that is already a ‘fait accompli.’ Our countries’ military alliance benefits in many ways.” The collaboration builds confidence and trust in each other’s capabilities, fostering mutual respect and operational readiness at all levels.

U.S. Navy CSGs, such as Carrier Strike Group 8 with USS Harry S. Truman, often play pivotal roles in both national and NATO maritime operations. Working under the authority of NATO’s Naval Striking and Support Forces, this training ensures that U.S. and Italian sailors, many of whom are first-term, gain vital experience before tackling real-world missions. The joint effort ensures preparedness for future operations that may involve similar collaborative endeavors.