Expeditionary Combat Group ‘DEDALO 23’ takes part in ‘Neptune Strike 23.1’

• It is a multi-domain exercise organised by the Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO)

From today, Monday 20 FEB until 27 FEB, the Navy vessels integrated in the Expeditionary Battle Group 'DEDALO 23' will participate in the exercise 'Neptune Strike 2023. 1'. In this edition, in addition to the aircraft carrier battle group 'Juan Carlos I', the US aircraft carrier strike group (CSG) 'Georges HW Bush' and the Italian 'Cavour' are also taking part.

This is a multi-domain exercise organised by the Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO). It will take place in the central Mediterranean to test the capabilities offered by the aircraft carrier strike groups for the defence of the Atlantic Alliance.

These activities show the commitment, improve the interoperability and the cohesion among allied nations and others. They also increase NATO deterrence stand and presence in the Mediterranean.  

Spain is participating in 'Neptune Strike 2023.1' with the resources provided by DEDALO 23 Expeditionary Combat Group, whose capabilities include the aircraft carrier 'Juan Carlos I', the frigate 'Blas de Lezo' and embarked aviation, as well as a landing battalion and various vessels for amphibious exercises.

During the 'Neptune Strike 2023.1', activities are planned to take place in Greece, Croatia, Albania, Romania, Hungary and other countries.

‘DEDALO 23’ deployment

DEDALO 23 Group, which reports to the Operations Command, has proven its interoperability with international forces from the beginning of its deployment by exchanging its helicopters with the NH-90s of the French aircraft carrier "Tonerre". The Spanish vessels have also carried out exercises at sea with the Italian vessels "Duilio", "San Giusto" and "Thaon de Revel" and with the French anti-aircraft destroyer "Chevalier Paul".

Due to the earthquake in Turkey, the Naval Air Group changed its planned schedule of activities for a week in order to help the victims and contribute to the distribution of humanitarian aid. On 15 February, it resumed its planned exercise schedule.

Throughout the first quarter, 'DEDALO-23' Air-Naval Amphibious Group will continue deployed in the Mediterranean to increase its training and reflect Spain's firm commitment to the Alliance's Deterrence and Defence Policy

This deployment will also serve to prepare its qualification and certification for subsequent incorporation into the NATO Readiness Initiative (NRI) in 2024 and to strengthen the image of the Armed Forces in the international context.

The four-phase deployment includes activities off the coasts of Italy, France and Egypt.

During the deployment, the group will interact with other NATO groupings and units, thereby multiplying training opportunities for NATO personnel.