Italian Aircraft Carrier Cavour Visits Japan for the First Time with Large Number of Fighter Jets Amidst China and Russia Threats

Historic First Port Call

On August 22, the Italian Navy aircraft carrier “Cavour” made its port call at the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka base. This marks the first visit by an Italian Navy aircraft carrier to Japan. The first port call by an Italian Navy vessel to Japan was made by the multi-role patrol vessel “Francesco Morosini,” which arrived in June 2023, but this visit by an aircraft carrier follows that historic event.

The “Cavour” measures 236 meters in length, 39 meters in width, and has a draft of 8.7 meters, similar to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s “Izumo,” which is planned to be converted into an aircraft carrier.

The “Cavour” departed from the Italian port of Taranto on June 1, made a port call in Singapore from June 23 to 28, and participated in the multinational exercise “Pitch Black 24” hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force from July 12 to August 2. This exercise is a large-scale event held every two years. After concluding the exercise, the ship arrived in Yokosuka on August 22. The primary purpose of the visit was for logistics replenishment and crew exchanges.

The flight deck of the “Cavour” features a unique slope resembling a ski jump, unlike American aircraft carriers or the previously mentioned escort ship “Izumo,” making it visually striking.

The deck was lined with aircraft, including two MH-90A helicopters, eight F-35B Lightning II fighters (one of which was an Air Force aircraft), and six AV-8B Harrier II attack aircraft, which are rare in Japan.

All of the Harriers were single-seat (one crew member), but one twin-seat (two crew members) TAV-8B Harrier II was also visible. Both the F-35B and Harrier II are V/STOL (Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing) aircraft, showcasing a blend of the nearly 30-year-old Harrier II with the latest F-35B fighter.

The “Cavour” docked at Yokosuka Base around 9:30 AM amidst a welcome performance by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Music Band.

During the subsequent welcome ceremony, Rear Admiral Toshihiko Sawada, Commander of the 1st Escort Flotilla, delivered a welcome speech, stating, “The JMSDF and the Italian Navy are reliable and natural partners sharing fundamental values and strategic interests under the principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The strengthening of Italy’s involvement in the Indo-Pacific region contributes to regional peace and stability and directly supports the maintenance of the existing order.”

After greetings from Italian Fleet Air Force Commander Brigadier General Giancarlo Chippina and Italian Ambassador to Japan Gianluigi Benedetti, the ceremony included the presentation of commemorative gifts and a group photo session.

In addition to the “Cavour,” the frigate “Alpino” also docked at Yokosuka Base. On August 25, the Italian Navy’s training sailing ship “Amerigo Vespucci” arrived at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. This means three Italian Navy vessels are deploying to Japan. Both the “Cavour” and “Alpino” are scheduled to depart Yokosuka Base on August 27 and will later participate in multinational exercises, including those involving Japan.

This port call is viewed in the context of maritime expansion by China and Russia. Joint training exercises with NATO member countries, across land, sea, and air, are expected to continue. The peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region are being developed with the collaboration of many allied nations.