“Grifone 2025” exercise has begun

From 9 to 13 June 2025, the small airport of Caiolo, in the Valtellina valley (northern Italy), will serve as the operational hub for “Grifone 2025”, one of the most important international Search and Rescue (SAR) exercises organized by the Italian Air Force this year.

Led by the Italian Air Force’s Aerospace Operations Command (COA), the exercise will focus on aerial SAR operations in the rugged terrain of the Rhaetian Alps and the Orobie Valtellinesi Natural Park, with the Forward Operating Base set up directly at Caiolo Airfield.

Multinational Participation

“Grifone 2025” brings together not only Italian military assets but also SAR units from Spain, France, and Switzerland, underlining the shared European commitment to mountain rescue operations.

Confirmed participants include Italy, Spain, France and Switzerland

In addition to the military forces, Italian Armed Forces, the Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico (CNSAS), and various government agencies will be involved, ensuring a highly integrated civilian-military effort.

Day and Night Operations

Flight and rescue operations will be conducted both during daylight and nighttime hours. Notably:

• 10 and 11 June: extended operations until 23:00 local time
• 13 June: daytime activities only

The Italian Air Force has emphasized its commitment to minimizing the environmental and acoustic impact on protected areas and nearby towns.

A Shared Objective: Saving Lives

The goal of “Grifone 2025” is not only to train crews and improve SAR procedures in a complex alpine setting, but also to enhance interoperability and mutual understanding among participating nations.

With scenarios simulating missing hikers, helicopter hoisting, and medical evacuations, the exercise highlights the vital importance of readiness and cross-border collaboration in safeguarding human life in mountainous environments.