Joint Stars 2025: Joint Defence and National Security Exercise
Joint Stars 2025 represents one of the most significant events for the Italian Armed Forces, a major national exercise involving all military components, but which stands out for its exceptional multi-domain approach and its inter-institutional dimension. Planned and conducted by the Comando Operativo di Vertice Interforze (COVI), this exercise will be held from 8 May and will also involve numerous State Bodies, agencies and ministries, with the aim of testing cooperation between the various entities operating for the defence of the nation. Not only a simulation of operational scenarios, but also an opportunity to foster interaction between the Armed Forces and the population through numerous solidarity initiatives.
The exercise: a test case for Defence
Joint Stars 2025 is set in a context of increasing complexity for global security, where threats are increasingly diverse and require an integrated and immediate response. The exercise, which will officially begin on 8 May, simulates scenarios spanning all five operational domains: land, sea, sky, space and cyber. The arrival of Nave Trieste in Cagliari, which marks the completion of the deployment of the necessary forces and means, represents a symbolic moment in this major operation that will see the involvement of specialised units and advanced means. It will be an opportunity to refine coordination and response capabilities, but also to test the synergies between the various institutional players, creating a network of collaboration that is fundamental for responding effectively to crisis situations, even the most unpredictable ones.
COVI, a central body in the planning and management of Italian military operations, has the task of coordinating activities in complex scenarios, such as those that will be simulated during the exercise. In particular, the COVI operates at national and international level to ensure integrated defence, also providing support in emergency situations, such as natural disasters, and interacting with other state and international bodies. The Joint Stars 2025 exercise thus becomes a fundamental test bed to verify the ability of the Italian Armed Forces to operate in an integrated and joint manner with other institutions, creating timely and coordinated responses to highly complex situations.
Solidarity and involvement of the population
In addition to the operational dimension, Joint Stars 2025 does not forget the human and solidarity aspect. In fact, the initiative includes a series of events open to the public, designed to promote solidarity and inclusion. The 'Joint Stars for Charity' project is designed to involve citizens in charitable activities, such as fundraising to upgrade local health facilities. In particular, the aim is to purchase two paediatric intensive and sub-intensive care beds for the ARNAS 'G. Brotzu' hospital in Cagliari. The initiative, which will culminate on the weekend of 10 and 11 May, will see the participation of the military, institutions, companies and associations, creating a choral event that will unite the Armed Forces and citizens under the banner of solidarity.
The charity activities will also include moments of culture and entertainment. On Saturday, 10 May, the Interforce Band will hold a benefit concert on board Nave Trieste, with the participation of singer-songwriter Bungaro, whose proceeds will be used to raise funds for the hospital. In addition, free health screenings will be organised for children on board Nave Trieste, thanks to the collaboration between doctors from the Cagliari ASL and military health personnel. Finally, on 11 May, the 'IX Karalis 10' solidarity run through the streets of Cagliari will be held, along with other cultural and recreational events, including the musical performance 'Pierino e il Lupo' for the young patients of the San Michele Hospital.
The COVI: the operational heart of Defence
The Comando Operativo di Vertice Interforze (COVI) is the central pillar for the management of Italian military operationswith responsibility for coordinating the operational activities of the Armed Forces and supporting state institutions in the event of national emergencies. COVI manages national and international defence operations, with a focus on complex scenarios that require a rapid and integrated response. At the same time, COVI also has a role in the simulation of strategic and operational scenarios, using the most advanced methodologies to train forces in realistic contexts.
The Army Corps General Giovanni Maria Iannucci, COVI commander, is a highly experienced officer with a career spanning numerous international missions, including in Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan. His training and service in major joint forces structures have consolidated his leadership role in coordinating Italian military operations, both domestically and internationally. In addition to his operational experience, the General Iannucci is a military parachutist, already Commander of the Folgore Parachute Brigadewith numerous honours, including Cavaliere dell'Ordine Militare d'Italia and Commendatore dell'Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana.
Joint Stars 2025 is a testimony to the commitment of the Italian Armed Forces in guaranteeing the defence of the nation, deploying not only their operational capabilities but also a strong sense of solidarity towards the population. By involving citizens and strengthening cooperation between institutions, this exercise becomes an opportunity to strengthen the link between the Armed Forces and civil society, demonstrating that the defence of the State also passes through concrete actions of support to local communities.
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.
