Brindisi, September 26, 2025 — As part of the NATO activity Neptune Strike 25-3, Italian and Turkish forces conducted a joint demonstration of high operational readiness amphibious capabilities in Brindisi.
The exercise, directed by the Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO), consolidated the integration between the Brigata Marina “San Marco” and the Turkish Amphibious Marine Infantry Brigade, highlighting the Alliance's growing interoperability in the maritime-coastal domain.
Neptune Strike 25-3 represents the third phase of the 2025 training cycle, involving over 10,000 military personnel from 13 allied nations deployed across the Mediterranean, Adriatic, North Sea, and Baltic.
One of the most significant moments of the activity took place in Brindisi, with a joint amphibious raid, helicopter insertions, and a tactical medical capability demonstration that tested the readiness of allied forces in a multi-domain scenario.
Operational Synergy in the Heart of the Adriatic
During the land phase, Italian and Turkish units conducted coordinated landings on Torre Cavallo and the Pedagne Islands, employing amphibious vehicles — including Turkish ZAHA vehicles — light boats, and tactical vehicles.
The operation simulated the capture and consolidation of a coastal bridgehead, with integrated air and maritime support.
Lieutenant Marc Mollica, commander of the 1st Assault Company “Bafile”, emphasized the training value of the initiative:
“We had the opportunity to conduct a joint amphibious raid simulation with our Turkish colleagues. It was an excellent occasion to share tactics, techniques, and operational procedures.”
The Italian officer also highlighted how the experience represented the first direct cooperation opportunity between the San Marco Brigade and the Turkish Marine Infantry, strengthening mutual understanding and interoperability of communication systems.
Deterrence, Interoperability, Cohesion
The exercise is part of NATO's deterrence and collective defense activities, which through the Neptune operations tests the Alliance's ability to integrate surface, submarine, and air forces in a crisis scenario.
In addition to amphibious operations, the 25-3 cycle includes carrier-based air missions, underwater patrols, and surface warfare scenarios in major European maritime theaters.
For NATO, Brindisi represented a concrete testing ground for integrated readiness in the Mediterranean, a strategic region for Euro-Atlantic security.
The joint training demonstrated the Alliance's ability to rapidly project force, supporting freedom of navigation and the defense of “every inch of allied territory” according to international law.
“I am certain that from this cooperation the San Marco Brigade and the Italian Landing Force have been able to enhance their knowledge of common procedures and improve operational communication activities,” added Lieutenant Mollica.
A Signal of Cohesion for the Mediterranean
Neptune Strike 25-3 confirms Italy's role as the southern pillar of the Alliance and the Maritime Command of Brindisi as a strategic hub for NATO operations.
The collaboration with Turkey, which deployed modern units and new-generation amphibious vehicles, strengthens the collective posture in the Mediterranean and the shared commitment to regional stability.
With the Neptune series, NATO continues to project a clear message: capability, cohesion, and readiness remain the cornerstones of Euro-Atlantic security.
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