Kickoff for the Dynamic Manta 2024 exercise

The NATO’s annual training activity named ‘Dynamic Manta’ is set to take place in the central Mediterranean area between February 26 and March 8. Since 2013, this exercise has been one of the most significant and complex antisubmarine training exercises within the alliance.

Organized by the NATO Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) and conducted off the eastern and southern coasts of Sicily, Dynamic Manta is an advanced antisubmarine warfare exercise aimed at improving allied capabilities to operate integratively against this threat.

This year, seven submarines from the navies of Italy, France, Greece, Spain, the United States, and Turkey will be involved, operating in coordination with the NATO Submarine Command and surface units. Additionally, maritime patrol aircraft from Canada, Germany, Greece, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Turkey are expected to participate. These activities will be carried out as part of Operation Noble Shield, under the tactical guidance of Rear Admiral Pasquale Esposito, Commander of the Second Permanent Naval Group of NATO in the Mediterranean.

The Italian Navy will participate in the exercise with the anti-submarine frigate Carlo Margottini, the destroyer Luigi Durand de la Penne, the Offshore Multipurpose Patrol Ship Francesco Morosini, two submarines, and two helicopters based at the Catania Helicopter Base.

Furthermore, Italy, as the host nation, will provide logistical support with the Augusta naval base, the port of Catania, and the Sigonella air base.