Royal Australian Air Force, Italy, and U.S. Navy Join Forces for Massive Multilateral Exercise

SOUTH CHINA SEA — The U.S., Italian navies, and the Royal Australian Air Force joined forces in a multilateral exercise in the South China Sea from September 8-11. This initiative aimed to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Key participants included the U.S. Navy’s USS Russell (DDG 59), the Royal Australian Air Force’s P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and several Italian naval vessels, including the aircraft carrier ITS Cavour (CV 550) and the Carlo Bergamini-class frigate ITS Alpino (F 594).

“These multilateral exercises are a testament to the progress we are achieving alongside our regional allies and partners,” stated Vice Adm. Kacher, commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet. “They provide dynamic opportunities to refine our skills in one of the world’s most complex maritime regions.”

The exercises encompassed fixed-wing air defense, combined anti-submarine warfare, and subject matter expert exchanges across participating vessels, showcasing advanced military coordination.

“It’s a significant chance to underscore the professionalism and readiness of our crews to operate far from home,” said Rear Adm. Giancarlo Ciappina, commander of the Italian Carrier Strike Group. “Our cohesive planning allowed us to function as a well-integrated team, enhancing multinational cooperation and demonstrating effective interoperability.”

In-depth training extended to command and control, tactics, and anti-surface warfare, further solidifying joint naval capabilities.

“Activities like these show our collective dedication to regional and international cooperation,” commented Air Commodore Michael Grant of the Joint Force Air Component Command. “Training together allows us to enhance interoperability and readiness for shared security challenges.”

The U.S. Navy’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region reflects a commitment to maintaining a rules-based international order. Multilateral exercises offer crucial opportunities to develop tactical interoperability among allied forces.

The USS Russell is forward-deployed with Destroyer Squadron 15 (DESRON 15), the Navy’s largest DESRON and the cornerstone of the U.S. 7th Fleet’s surface forces.

The U.S. 7th Fleet, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, regularly collaborates with regional allies to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.