Mediterranean Sea – Aircraft carriers from France, Italy and Spain are operating across the Mediterranean Sea as part of Neptune Strike, an enhanced Vigilance Activity aimed at improving Allied coordination at sea and maintaining a visible, ready presence in nearby waters.

Carrier Strike Groups from Spain and Italy, led by the ESPS Juan Carlos I and ITS Cavour, are active in the central Mediterranean, launching aircraft on simulated missions into Bulgaria, Poland and Romania. The French carrier Charles de Gaulle is taking part from the southeastern Mediterranean.

A major focus for ITS Cavour is the integration of the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter alongside AV-8B Harrier II jets. The F-35 offers stealth and advanced sensors, while the AV-8B carries a heavier weapons load, creating a highly effective combination.

Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO), based in Portugal, is leading multiple iterations of Neptune Strike throughout the year to strengthen cooperation between Allies and reinforce NATO’s presence in the region. This phase of the exercise runs from 25 March to 1 April 2026 and brings together Carrier Strike Groups from France, Italy and Spain for joint training and combined air and maritime operations.

Footage shows flight operations aboard the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour, including AV-8B Harrier and F-35 Lightning II jets taking off and landing, along with scenes of sailors working inside the ship’s Combat Information Centre.

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