Professionalism and Readiness: Exercise 'Candelo 1/25' of the Nice Cavalry Regiment
The 'Candelo 1/25' exercise, aimed at testing the readiness and efficiency of the regiment, was recently concluded at Candelo Massazza and represented an important training opportunity for the 'Nizza Cavalry' (1st) regiment from Bellinzago Novarese. The planning, organisation and conduct of activities spanned two weeks, during which the focus was on strengthening the ability to plan, organise and conduct tactical operations at squad and platoon level. The exercise involved three platoons of armoured scouts, two belonging to the Nizza Cavalry regiment and one to the Piedmont Cavalry regiment, as well as two platoons of fighters from the 32nd Engineer Regiment of the 'Taurinense' Brigade and the 2nd Engineer Regiment of the 'Julia' Brigade.
The training activities ranged from individual shooting lessons with hand-held and departmental weapons, to exercises with the Blindo Armata Centauro, one of the symbolic vehicles of the Italian Cavalry. The exercises took place in different modes: blank, fire and blank, with the participation of opposing formations. A particularly important aspect was the use of the SIAT (Sistemi Integrati per l'Addestramento Terrestre) simulation system, which enabled the testing of reaction capability and coordination between departments, improving operational readiness.
The importance of interoperability and professionalism
In addition to testing the readiness of the units, the exercise also focused on technological innovation. A crucial aspect was the training of operators of remotely piloted aircraft (APR), who used the new reconnaissance devices. These devices, which are constantly evolving, have become a fundamental tool for gathering information in the field, enabling accurate and timely monitoring of operations.
The combatants had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new active obstacle-force systems, thus acquiring advanced skills for overcoming the difficulties that can be encountered in complex operational scenarios. This integration between new technologies and traditional operational capabilities represented a test bed for interoperability between the various departments and armed forces involved. In fact, the synergy between Cavalry and Engineer vehicles has become fundamental in adapting technical and tactical procedures to the use of innovative tools. This approach has strengthened the overall operational capability of the forces, increasing their effectiveness in dealing with complex situations.
The Blindo Armata Centauro: symbol of efficiency and mobility
One of the most representative assets of the exercise was the armoured vehicle 'Centauro'. Used by the cavalry units of the Italian Army, the Centauro played a central role in operations. Produced since 1990, the Centauro was designed to renew the line of armoured vehicles in service, responding to the mobility and protection needs of cavalry units.
Available in three versions, the Blindo Armata Centauro stands out for its ability to operate in a variety of contexts and conditions, thanks to an excellent power-to-weight ratio and a firing capability that allows it to fire on the move. The self-stabilised aiming system and 105 mm fire mouth make it one of the most advanced platforms, capable of guaranteeing tactical superiority in the field.
The Centauro is an extremely versatile vehicle: as well as having excellent mobility on and off-road, it is characterised by a range that allows it to operate in extended situations. It has been used in several international missions, including those in Somalia, Kosovo and Iraq, in the context of Operation Ancient Babylon. Currently, the Blindo Armata Centauro is deployed in several international operations, such as Operation Enhanced Vigilance Activities (eVA) in Bulgaria, Operation Leonte in Lebanon and Operation Baltic Guardian in Latvia.
The ongoing training has therefore highlighted not only the importance of operational efficiency, but also the departments' ability to adapt to new technologies and strategies, ensuring that the Italian Army is always ready to respond to future challenges in an effective and coordinated manner. The 'Nizza Cavalry' regiment, with its solid tradition and the constant updating of its capabilities, confirms itself as one of the pillars of the national armed force. Furthermore, the exercise demonstrated how the Army is evolving to meet the increasingly complex challenges of modern conflicts.
Published by Condoralex
Born Alessandro Generotti, C.le Maj. Parachutist on leave. Military Parachutist Patent no. 192806. 186th RGT Par. Folgore/5th BTG. Par. El Alamein/XIII Cp. Par. Condor.
Founder and administrator of the website BRIGATAFOLGORE.NET. Blogger and computer scientist by profession.
