Italian carrier strike group's strategic mission in Indo-Pacific

An article by the War on the Rocks has said that the Italian carrier strike group, centered around the aircraft carrier ITS Cavour and the frigate ITS Alpino, is making headlines as it docks in Tokyo Bay. 

The strike group brings with it a 13-aircraft strong air wing, featuring both AV-8B Harrier II jets and state-of-the-art F-35B aircraft.

This deployment follows substantial participation in the Pitch Black exercise, where the Italian aircraft completed around 180 flying hours and 110 missions, including air-to-ground attacks and suppression of enemy air defences. 

Additionally, the carrier strike group recently conducted its first significant joint operation in the region with the U.S. Navy’s Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group.

This move is more than just a routine European diplomatic gesture; it marks Italy’s serious intent to demonstrate its military credentials and reinforce its strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific. The deployment of the navy’s training ship, ITS Amerigo Vespucci, alongside the Cavour, adds historical and cultural significance to the operation, distinguishing it from other recent European visits to the region.

The underlying questions surrounding this deployment are significant: Why is an Italian aircraft carrier operating in the Indo-Pacific, and why does this matter? These inquiries touch upon broader debates about European military presence in Asia amidst ongoing support for Ukraine and post-Cold War reductions in European naval capabilities. 

While some argue for European restraint in Asia to focus on the conflict in Ukraine, others believe that European powers, including the UK and France, should actively engage in the Indo-Pacific, particularly from a maritime perspective.

Examining Italy's actions reveals three primary motivations for the carrier strike group's deployment. First, it aligns with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s foreign policy, emphasizing the strategic importance of expanding trade and security connections with the Gulf and Indo-Pacific regions. 

Second, it highlights Italy’s commitment to strengthening strategic relationships with key partners like Japan, underlining the fragility of the global maritime order. Third, the deployment contributes to Italy’s development of an operational capability integral to the European Carrier Group Interoperability Initiative.

Under Meloni’s leadership, Italy has shifted its foreign policy focus to encompass the Indo-Pacific, reflecting a broader geopolitical strategy that includes strengthening ties with Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. This shift is embodied in initiatives like the “Mattei Plan for Africa” and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which aim to enhance Italy’s economic and strategic presence in these regions.

Moreover, Italy’s withdrawal from China’s Belt and Road Initiative and its efforts to reduce energy dependency on Russia have reinforced its focus on regional engagements. The Mattei Plan, combined with Italy’s strategic visits to India and the UAE, underscores the country’s new approach to foreign policy and its role in the Indo-Pacific.

Italy’s commitment to regional security and technological advancement is also reflected in its participation in the Global Combat Air Programme with Japan and the UK. This collaboration aims to retain a military-technological edge and strengthen defence ties, as evidenced by increased trade with Japan and enhanced bilateral relations.

The Italian carrier strike group's deployment to Tokyo is not merely a display of naval power but a strategic maneuver within a broader European engagement in the Indo-Pacific. It reflects Italy’s commitment to maritime statecraft, operational proficiency, and international cooperation. 

As Italy continues to expand its presence and capabilities in the region, its actions provide valuable insights into the evolving role of European powers in maintaining global stability and advancing their strategic interests beyond traditional boundaries.