​​The Italian FREMM frigate is fully integrated into the French Carrier Strike Group (CSG), escorting aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, which is engaged in the CLEMENCEAU 25 mission.

While navigating off the coast of Sicily, CTF 473 was welcomed onboard ITS Fasan by the commanding officer, Commander Viviana Montrone, and her staff, proud to show the results achieved in this first phase of Force Integration Training. Rear Admiral Mallard then wished to commend the crew, gathered on the flight deck, expressing his gratitude: 'This is my first visit onboard a naval unit integrated into the Carrier Strike Group under my command and I am very pleased. I would like to take this opportunity to underline the loyalty and longevity of the cooperation between our two navies, heirs to a common history forged in the Mare Nostrum". The Admiral then expressed his admiration for the fighting spirit, resilience, and seamanship that characterise the Italian crews, whom he had also met last year on occasion of the AKILA mission and then during MARE APERTO 24. He concluded his speech by emphasizing that the crossing of the Strait of Messina on December 6th marked the CSG's actual entry into the theatre of operations: “From now on, no mistakes are allowed, but I know I can count on your determination. Thank you for your work and I wish you an excellent end to your deployment by our side until the coasts of Egypt". These were the closing words for the men and women of the Fasan.

CLEMENCEAU 25 mission will contribute to enhancing cooperation among NATO partners and Allied nations, strengthening the interoperability of their respective navies through an intensive joint training programme. This programme will improve our ability to operate in the Mediterranean and worldwide, helping to maintain freedom of navigation.

The visit ended with the traditional exchange of gifts between commanidng officers and the signature of ITS Fasan's wardroom book.

“As we say in France, Bon vent et bonne mer!"