The NATO Naval Group, under the command of Rear Admiral Paolo Fantoni of the Navy, has assumed command of all surface units that will take part in the Dynamic Manta, one of the largest exercises conducted by NATO in the Mediterranean.
The 2020 edition, hosted as usual by Italy, involves nine allied nations (Canada, France, Greece, Germany, Italy, Spain, Turkey, UK, and USA) for a force at sea composed of eight surface units and four underwater, supported by fixed and rotary wing aircraft, embarked or ground based.
Rear Admiral Fantoni, referring to the Dynamic Manta, said: “We have a long experience of ASW (anti-submarine) operations in the Mediterranean, which we have always conducted with multifunction platforms, such as our frigates. Today, with the newly developed Units we are deploying, we have grown in terms of performance and long-range underwater discovery capability. But now is the time to work on integrating these capabilities between all the platforms used and to develop new employment tactics that allow us to make the most of our capabilities. " The admiral also commented on the role assumed by the Italian Navy as host of the event: "We are confident in the support that the Navy can provide to the Alliance. I am proud to support NATO in its effort to train allied forces and improve our operational procedures."
In this regard, Rear Admiral Petroni, commander of MARICOSOM also expressed himself: "The Italian Commanders will support the forces employed in Dynamic Manta with the Marina di Catania helicopter station and with the Sigonella base, while the Augusta naval base will remain available for the support and maintenance needs of the Units".
On February 24th, on the occasion of the half day, an ASW fighting demonstration was carried out, conducted by the SNMG2 Units Carabiniere e Fredericton, which simulated an action of discovery and engagement of underwater units, with the cooperation of the submarine Salvatore Todaro of the Navy, using its sensors and helicopters on board.
