The Cavour, accompanied by the frigate Alpino, arrived at the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) base in Yokosuka, south of Tokyo. The vessels are set to engage in joint exercises with Japanese forces during their five-day stay.
The 236.5-meter-long Cavour, with its crew of approximately 1,100, symbolizes Italy's growing strategic interest in the area, particularly in response to China's increasing maritime activities.
At a welcome ceremony, officials from both navies expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming joint antisubmarine warfare drills and the opportunity for military exchange.
This visit follows the Italian multipurpose patrol ship Francesco Morosini's port call at Yokosuka last June, which marked the first such visit by an Italian naval vessel to the base, underscoring Italy's commitment to strengthening ties in the region.
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