The NATO exercise Med Strike begins in the Ionian Sea

A significant multinational naval presence has been tracked in the Ionian Sea as part of NATO’s ongoing “Med Strike” exercise, with several warships and auxiliary vessels operating south of Italy.

Exercise Med Strike is taking place in the Ionian Sea from 5 to 11 May, bringing together 21 warships, 3 submarines, 41 fast jets, 19 helicopters, 10 maritime patrol aircraft, and over 8,000 personnel from across NATO.

This exercise offers a rare opportunity for two NATO carrier strike groups to operate in close coordination. The UK Carrier Strike Group will train alongside the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour Strike Group, rehearsing a wide range of joint operations. Like the Royal Navy, the Italian Navy operates F-35Bs, allowing both forces to conduct cross-deck operations and further strengthen interoperability.

Among the units involved is the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) centered around the HMS Prince of Wales, which is currently deployed in the region. Supporting this British aircraft carrier are various escort and support ships from NATO allies.

Visible in the area are:

• HNoMS Amundsen (F311) of the Royal Norwegian Navy, a modern frigate providing anti-submarine and surface warfare capabilities.
• Tidesurge, a Royal Navy auxiliary ship, responsible for providing logistical support and replenishment at sea.
• The Spanish Navy frigate Victoria, operating nearby as part of the coordinated maritime task force.

To the north, near the Strait of Messina, the Portuguese frigate Bartolomeu Dias (F333) was last tracked approximately 12 hours ago, likely transiting to join the formation or conducting patrol duties.

In the area, we also tracked several helicopters (from the Royal Navy and the US Navy) as well as an unidentified drone.

These coordinated movements underscore NATO’s operational readiness and the ability to project maritime power in the central Mediterranean. The “Med Strike” exercise is designed to enhance interoperability among allied naval forces, with a strong emphasis on joint operations, maritime security, and rapid response in crisis scenarios.

As the CSG led by HMS Prince of Wales continues its maneuvers, further deployments and high-intensity training activities are expected in the coming days.