Dragone Sethlans 26: the Artillery Brigade strengthens operational capabilities

The exercise “Dragone Sethlans 26” concluded in recent days, an important training activity conducted by the Italian Army Artillery Command with the contribution of various specialist units. The exercise represented a fundamental moment to test and consolidate the fire planning and management procedures, a crucial element in supporting the maneuver of ground forces.

Held between the Bracciano area and the Monteromano military range, the activity involved numerous operational assets, including the 5th Artillery Regiment “Superga” and the 52nd Artillery Regiment “Torino”. Leading the Brigade's response cell was Brigadier General Andrea Simone, Commander of the Artillery Command, a key figure in the process of developing the operational capabilities of the sector.

The main objective of the exercise was to refine the coordination capability between sensors and weapon systems, through an integrated approach to the modern battlefield. In an increasingly complex and multi-domain operational context, the speed of information transmission and the precision of fire response are determining factors for the success of operations.

“Dragone Sethlans 26” is part of a broader growth path of the Artillery Brigade, called to operate in close synergy with other components of the Armed Forces. The exercise thus constituted a realistic testing ground to verify procedures, decision-making timelines, and integration capabilities between various command levels.

Integration, command, and operational capabilities

One of the most relevant aspects of the exercise was the consolidation of fire management procedures in support of a Land Component Command. In this framework, the coordinated use of advanced sensors – including observation and target acquisition systems – allowed for the simulation of high-intensity operational scenarios, in line with the latest doctrinal developments.

The participation of the 185th Artillery Regiment “Folgore” further enriched the training level, contributing specific skills in the field of target acquisition and fire coordination. This allowed the Brigade to strengthen its ability to operate in complex environments, where information superiority is decisive.

During the activity, Corps General Giovanni Gagliano, Commander of Combat Support Forces, was able to verify in the field the initial operational capabilities expressed by the Artillery Command. His presence represented a moment of strategic evaluation, aimed at monitoring the path towards achieving the Brigade's full operational capability.

The exercise also highlighted the importance of digitalizing decision-making processes and interoperability between systems. Fire management is no longer an isolated activity but an integral part of a complex network where information, sensors, and platforms must communicate in real-time.

In this context, “Dragone Sethlans 26” confirmed the central role of artillery as a force multiplier, capable of significantly influencing the course of operations on the ground.

Training and “baptism of fire” for new recruits

Alongside operational and command aspects, the exercise had a strong training value, also involving personnel in the specialization phase. In particular, the 26th Course marshals and the Initial Enlistment Volunteers of the 2nd block 2025 actively participated in the activities at the Monteromano range.

For these young soldiers, “Dragone Sethlans 26” represented a fundamental moment in their professional journey: the so-called “baptism of fire”. Through the real use of weapon systems and the conduct of fire observation activities, they were able to put into practice the theoretical knowledge acquired during the courses conducted by the Artillery Command's training regiment.

The field experience allowed for the refinement of technical-tactical procedures, developing essential skills to operate in real operational contexts. The ability to work as a team, manage stress, and make quick decisions are key elements that only realistic training can consolidate.

In perspective, investment in training represents one of the fundamental pillars to ensure the efficiency and operational readiness of the Artillery Brigade. The new generations of soldiers, adequately prepared and integrated into operational units, indeed constitute the foundation on which to build the future capabilities of the Italian Army.

“Dragone Sethlans 26” thus confirms itself not only as a high-level technical exercise but also as a moment of collective growth, capable of combining innovation, training, and human resource development.