Underscoring the growing strategic cooperation and enduring maritime partnership between India and Italy, the Indian Navy’s guided-missile frigate INS Trishul successfully concluded her port call at Civitavecchia on October 28, 2026.
The visit formed part of the warship’s ongoing operational deployment across the Mediterranean Sea.
During her time at the historic Italian port, INS Trishul engaged in extensive professional interactions, operational discussions, and cultural exchanges with her Italian counterparts, showcasing mutual trust and high-level interoperability between the two seafaring nations.
High-Level Engagements & Ship Visits
As part of the key professional exchanges, the Commanding Officer of INS Trishul called on Vice Admiral Aurelio De Carolis, Fleet Commander and CINCNAV of the Italian Navy. Demonstrating mutual camaraderie, the crew of INS Trishul visited the Italian Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, ITS Cavour, which was also docked at Civitavecchia. These interactions provided a rare window for tactical insights and operational experience sharing between both naval forces.
To deepen people-to-people connections, INS Trishul opened her decks to visitors during her stay. The ship welcomed a vibrant crowd comprising members of the local Italian population alongside enthusiastic representatives of the Indian diaspora, offering them a glimpse into the Indian Navy’s capabilities and traditions.
Diplomatic Event Onboard
A major highlight of the port call was a special cultural evening hosted onboard INS Trishul. The flagship event was attended by Her Excellency Ms Vani Rao, Ambassador of India to Italy, and Vice Admiral Aurelio De Carolis.
The gathering brought together key dignitaries, including:
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The Mayor of Civitavecchia
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Senior leadership of the Italian Navy and Coast Guard
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Defence Envoys representing 13 distinct nations
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Civil leaders and prominent members of the Indian diaspora
The onboard reception served as a diplomatic bridge, fostering dialogue among military leadership, foreign envoys, and the wider international community.
Sailing Forward
Having concluded her operational objectives in Italy, INS Trishul has departed Civitavecchia and set sail for the subsequent phase of her deployment in the Mediterranean Sea. The visit reaffirms India’s commitment to maintaining safe seas and expanding blue-water diplomacy in key global maritime corridors.
