The United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group (CSG) made a stop in the Gulf of Naples, marking a significant moment in Anglo-Italian cooperation in defense and security. For several days, three vessels – including the Royal Navy’s flagship HMS Prince of Wales and the Type 45 destroyer Dauntless – were moored in the port and anchored off the coast of Naples, together with the Norwegian ship Roald Amundsen, after a five-month mission in the Indo-Pacific aimed at strengthening NATO security through major exercises with partners and allies, including Italy.
The arrival of the CSG launched an intense program of multilateral and bilateral activities both on board and across the city.
Sunday, 16 November – Music met heritage
The Band of the Royal Marines Scotland entertained residents and visitors with a performance in the recently restored Galleria Umberto I. Known for its precision and versatility, the band presented a repertoire combining traditional military marches with contemporary pieces, creating a unique cultural and entertainment moment in the heart of Naples.
Monday, 17 November – Strategic dialogue at sea
On Monday, HMS Prince of Wales was visited by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Defence Secretary John Healey, who then held high-level bilateral meetings with their Italian counterparts, On Antonio Tajani and On. Guido Crosetto. The discussion focused on foreign policy, defense, and security at a crucial time for Anglo-Italian collaboration in these sectors.