Steadfast Dagger 2026: a key step for the Italian Joint Force Air Component (ITA JFAC)

A crucial phase of the exercise Steadfast Dagger 2026 concluded recently at the Comando Operazioni Aerospaziali (COA) in Poggio Renatico, in the province of Ferrara, marking a central moment in the certification process of the Italian Joint Force Air Component as part of NATO's Allied Reaction Force.

The so-called “C-Block” phase was a decisive testing ground, focused on Crisis Response Planning (CRP), namely the planning of responses to complex crisis scenarios. In this context, ITA JFAC personnel worked closely with the evaluation team of the Atlantic Alliance, developing operational options and strategies in multi-domain environments, increasingly characterized by hybrid and high-intensity threats.

The activities highlighted the Italian Command's ability to plan a comprehensive air campaign, from scenario analysis to the definition of operational objectives. This complex process required the integration of capabilities from multiple domains – air, space, and cyber – in line with NATO's doctrinal evolution.

The conclusion of the C-Block phase thus represents a fundamental step towards the full certification of ITA JFAC, ready to operate within the ARF, NATO's rapid reaction force. In an increasingly unstable geopolitical context, the ability to respond promptly to crises is one of the key elements of deterrence and collective defense.

The role of the Italian Air Force and operational leadership

During the exercise, Silvano Frigerio, Commander of the Comando Squadra Aerea – 1ª Regione Aerea, visited the personnel engaged in the activities, participating in planning sessions and observing the work of the various functional cells up close.

In his speech, the General emphasized the high level of professionalism demonstrated by the personnel and the sustained operational pace, highlighting how these standards are an essential requirement for facing future responsibilities within NATO. In particular, he reiterated the importance of interoperability among allied forces, or the ability to operate according to common procedures and standards, an essential element for acting as a single cohesive force.

At the end of the certification phase, Luca Maineri, Commander of COA and ITA JFAC, also expressed satisfaction with the positive feedback from the NATO evaluation team. The General highlighted the commitment, professionalism, and cohesion demonstrated by the personnel, emphasizing how exercises of this type are fundamental for maintaining high levels of operational readiness.

The contribution of the Italian Air Force thus fits into a broader framework of strengthening the Alliance's capabilities, in which Italy assumes an increasingly significant role in the field of aerospace command and control. The certification of ITA JFAC will indeed be a recognition of the national capability to significantly contribute to NATO operations.

The COA and ITA JFAC: pillars of Italian aerospace power

The Comando Operazioni Aerospaziali di Poggio Renatico is one of the key nodes of national defense. From this structure, active 24 hours a day throughout the year, the surveillance and defense of Italian airspace is ensured, along with coordination with NATO structures.

Within this system, ITA JFAC represents the component dedicated to the planning and management of complex air operations. Activated in case of crisis, the command is responsible for the planning, assignment, and conduct of air missions, in accordance with Defense directives. In peacetime, its permanent structure is called “Core JFAC”, maintaining a high level of readiness.

The COA, on which ITA JFAC depends, also plays a leading doctrinal role, contributing to the development and employment of Italian aerospace power. Its ability to provide an integrated view of the aerospace spectrum makes it a key element not only for national security but also for Italy's credibility within NATO.

The conclusion of the C-Block phase of Steadfast Dagger 2026 thus confirms the level of maturity reached by the Italian command and control system. A result that does not represent an endpoint, but rather an intermediate step towards full integration into the Alliance's operational capabilities, in a constantly evolving strategic context.