Mare Aperto 2021 is an Italian exercise open to allied and NATO countries with the aim of enhancing the participating assets' combat readiness.
Mare Aperto 2021 is taking place in the waters of the Adriatic Sea, Ionian Sea, Strait of Sicily and Thyrrenian Sea, from 4 to 27 October 2021.
More than 4,000 men and women from nine Navies, 21 naval units, four AV-8B aircraft and 17 embarked helicopters, including 2 combat helicopters of the Italian Army, three Italian submarines, Italian Air Force and P72 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and ground-based P180 aircraft are taking part.
The staff and crews are facing drills of increasing difficulty in a complex and realistic environment, in which a wide range of activities are conducted, ranging from counter-terrorism, protection of critical infrastructures, protection of free navigation (including counter-piracy), fight against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, to maritime interdiction.
Training in multiple warfare specialty areas are being conducted including anti-air, anti-submarine and anti-surface ship scenarios. The exercise is also designed to allow participants to work together to manage crisis situations facing threats from both conventional and asymmetric threats.
SNMG2 is under the command of Rear Admiral Stefano Russo (Italian Navy). SNMG2 TU02 is currently comprised of the Italian flagship ITS Fasan, German tanker FGS Spessart, and Turkish frigate TCG Gokceada.
Standing Naval Forces participate in exercises like Mare Aperto in order to enhance interoperability, show presence and assure Allies of the maritime commitment to collective defence.