In a historic first, Italy has deployed its flagship aircraft carrier and of the world’s smallest, Cavour, to Australia to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2024. Twenty-three Italian warplanes, including eight F-35Bs, are practicing dogfights, strikes, and other operations.
Arriving in Darwin on July 8, the Cavour, accompanied by the Alpino FREMM frigate, is engaging in one of the region’s most complex and realistic training exercises from July 12 to August 2.
The Cavour, notable for being one of the smallest aircraft carriers globally, docked at East Arm Wharf, while the Alpino berthed at Kuru Wharf at HMAS Coonawarra naval base.
Italian naval aviation assets, including AV-8B Harrier II Plus and F-35B STOVL Lightning II fighter aircraft from Gruppo Aerei Imbarcati (GRUPAER), have already been stationed at RAAF Base Darwin since early July.
These aircraft, integral to Cavour’s air group, are engaged in a spectrum of exercises, ranging from air combat to maritime patrol and search-and-rescue operations.
Commanding Officer Captain Milos Argenton of the Cavour highlighted the significance of Italy’s participation, describing it as a historic milestone for both the Italian Navy and Exercise Pitch Black itself.
“This is the first time that Italy has joined Exercise Pitch Black and the first time an aircraft carrier has participated,” Captain Argenton remarked.
“The Cavour has traveled across the Atlantic and around Africa, but this is the first time it has traveled into the Indo-Pacific region. It is a multi-capable ship that accommodates over 600 people, 13 jets, and two NH90 helicopters,” Argenton added.
The Cavour’s capabilities include accommodating up to 13 jets, including AV-8B and F-35B aircraft, along with two NHIndustries SH-90 helicopters for various operational roles. The Alpino frigate, accompanying the Cavour, further enhances Italy’s naval presence during the exercise, showcasing Italy’s comprehensive maritime capabilities and commitment to regional stability.
Rear Admiral Giancarlo Ciappina, Commander of the Italian Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, expressed enthusiasm about the exercise’s role in strengthening Italy’s operational capabilities and fostering international partnerships.
“Being a part of this exercise is already a great success. By bringing partner nations together, we grow our mutual knowledge, relationships, and friendships,” Rear Admiral Ciappina stated.
Italy’s decision to deploy the Cavour and Alpino frigate also underscores its strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to expand diplomatic ties and deepen defense cooperation with regional allies.
Italian Navy’s Cavour Aircraft Carrier
The Italian Navy’s aircraft carrier, Cavour, stands out in the global fleet as one of the smallest. Officially designated as ITS Cavour (CVH 550), this vessel epitomizes Italy’s naval prowess, combining advanced technology with versatile operational capabilities.
Commissioned in 2008, Cavour measures approximately 244 meters (800 feet) in length and has a beam of 39 meters (128 feet). When fully loaded, it has a displacement of around 30,000 tons.
The carrier features a ski-jump ramp designed for short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft, such as the F-35B Lightning II, enhancing its ability to project power and respond swiftly to various situations.
Compared to larger aircraft carriers, Cavour is notably smaller in size and displacement. For example, the United States’ Nimitz-class carriers are about 333 meters (1,092 feet) long with a full-load displacement of approximately 100,000 tons.
The Ford-class carriers are roughly 337 meters (1,106 feet) in length with a similar displacement of around 100,000 tons. The UK’s Queen Elizabeth-class carriers measure about 280 meters (919 feet) in length with a full-load displacement of about 65,000 tons.
Other significant comparisons include China’s Liaoning and Shandong, each about 305 meters (1,001 feet) long with a displacement of around 60-70,000 tons. Russia’s Admiral Kuznetsov is also about 305 meters (1,001 feet) in length, with a displacement of 58,600 tons.
India’s INS Vikramaditya measures 283 meters (928 feet) in length with a full-load displacement of around 45,400 tons, while India’s second aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, is 262 meters (865 feet) long with a displacement close to 45,000 tons.
Despite its smaller dimensions, Cavour is an essential asset for Italy. It is equipped to perform a range of roles, including air defense, power projection, and amphibious operations.
The carrier can accommodate helicopters and STOVL jets, providing significant flexibility. Additionally, it can transport troops and vehicles, supporting humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
Cavour’s design and capabilities ensure it plays a vital role in Italy’s maritime strategy and international naval operations. The 134-meter hangar area has the capacity to store up to 24 battle tanks or around 50 lighter vehicles.
It features access ramps and elevators for aircraft and can also serve as a landing platform for heavy transport helicopters.
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