“Aegis 26” Exercise at the Monte Romano Firing Range

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The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, along with Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, observed the “Aegis 26” exercise, conducted by the Italian Army, at the Monte Romano Training Range.

“Mr. President of the Republic, your presence here once again demonstrates the constant attention you give to the Armed Forces and your invaluable support for the men and women in uniform who serve the country every day with professionalism, dedication, loyalty, and a sense of duty.” said Minister Crosetto during his remarks at the event, which was attended by, among others, the Under Secretary of State for Defense, Senator Isabella Rauti, civilian authorities, and senior leaders of the Armed Forces.
“Your words,” he added, “represent authoritative guidance and steadfast support for all of us. The recognition of the Army and the Armed Forces as points of reference for the entire nation, together with the call for loyalty to the Republic, serves as both a reminder and an incentive for us to always do better in the service of Italy.
Every exercise represents the final phase of a process and a test of the daily commitment that makes the Armed Forces effective, modern, and ready.
Today’s exercise is the result of the long and meticulous preparation of the men and women of the Italian Army and of full joint-force integration, which in this case also includes the participation of personnel and aircraft from the Air Force. This work is essential for addressing increasingly complex operational scenarios, in which conventional threats are compounded by hybrid ones and new technologies are profoundly transforming the battlefield. Preparation means not only knowing how to respond, but also foreseeing and, whenever possible, anticipating challenges and pitfalls. It means testing capabilities, acquiring procedures and technologies, and refining interoperability with allies, while identifying areas for improvement.
In this constantly evolving landscape, however, one thing remains constant: the true asset of the Department of Defense is its men and women, with their professionalism and ability to understand, manage, and utilize technology.
As Secretary of Defense, I have a duty to consider even the worst-case scenario, while hoping it never comes to pass.
In a context such as the current one, in which in too many parts of the world force claims to prevail over the rule of law, we must remember that security is the concrete foundation of freedom and democracy. Peace is never secured once and for all: it must be built and defended every day, including through well-prepared, modern, and credible Armed Forces capable of protecting Italy, its institutions, and its citizens.”