The Italian light aircraft carrier ITS Garibaldi joined the EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia Task Force in the Central Mediterranean taking over the role of mission flagship from ITS Cavour November 25. 

Having left her home base port of Taranto (Italy) last June 26, only 4 days after the mission launch, the Italian aircraft carrier Cavour, which has been the first ship in EUNAVFOR MED operation, will be undertaking a planned routine period of maintenance.

During the 5 months, the Italian ship has hosted EUNAVFOR MED operation Sophia Force Commander, Rear Admiral (LH) Andrea Gueglio, and his International Staff composed by more than 50 officers and petty officers coming from different EU contributing Member States.

Additionally the 2 EH 101 helicopters embarked on the ship undertook 154 patrol and surveillance missions, flying more the 240 hours, in order to collect pieces of information about suspicious activities at sea.

Image: Italian Navy