12.11.2012
Text: Southern Military District Press Service
Photo: Southern Military District Press Service
Participants of the IONIEX-2012 joint Russian-Italian naval exercise, namely Black Sea Fleet (BSF) destroyer Smetlivy, BSF seagoing tug MB-304, Italian frigates Aviere and Zeffiro called at Taranto on Nov 10 after termination of the sea phase.
Prior to the port call, Russian and Italian naval mariners practiced joint self-protection being anchored off Gallipoli, repelled "attack" of a small-size surface target, held drills in joint navigation and underway replenishment of supplies. Italian naval helicopter conducted aerial photography of the joint actions.
During the stay in Taranto, crews of Russian ships are having excursion tours and visit local sight of interest.
Parties will summarize the exercise on Nov 13.
