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NATO Conducts Large-Scale Anti-Submarine Exercise in Sicily

Nine Allied nations are participating in Exercise Dynamic Manta 24, a major anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise currently underway off the coast of Sicily, Italy. The exercise, which began on February 26 and runs until March 8, aims to prepare NATO submarine crews to respond and adapt to various underwater threats.

Highlights of the exercise include:

  • Participation of seven submarines and multiple surface ships from Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
  • Involvement of Allied Maritime Special Operations Forces (SOF) for the second time in the exercise's history, working alongside other NATO members to enhance interoperability and effectiveness.
  • Complex maneuvers such as winching personnel and supplies between helicopters and submarines, showcasing advanced capabilities.
  • Demonstration of interoperability between Allied forces, including cooperation between a P-3 Maritime Patrol Aircraft and the Italian Navy's ITS Francesco Morosini ship.

This exercise underscores NATO's commitment to maintaining strong collective defense and crisis response capabilities, particularly in the area of anti-submarine warfare.

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