NATO and the Italian Navy have reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security by signing a renewed memorandum of understanding, further strengthening their collaboration in undersea research and technology.

The agreement between NATO’s Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE) and the Italian Naval Support and Experimentation Centre (CSSN) will accelerate joint research into next-generation maritime defence capabilities, enhancing innovation and interoperability in the undersea domain.

Italian Rear Admiral Cristiano Nervi, Director of CSSN, explained: “A strong relationship with CMRE is essential, especially today, when developing new underwater technologies is critical. We must be able to defend undersea infrastructure and operate effectively in the underwater domain.”

Located at the San Bartolomeo naval base in La Spezia, Italy, CMRE and CSSN have a long-standing partnership in undersea defence, autonomous systems, and maritime security.

Dr Eric Pouliquen, CMRE’s Director, added: “As neighbours in La Spezia, we share a focus on similar maritime challenges, particularly in the undersea domain. This agreement strengthens our collaboration and expands our community of interest around the challenges NATO and the Alliance face.

“Now, with the right framework in place, we can bring together our best minds to tackle some of the toughest problems facing the Alliance. This partnership will enable us to work more efficiently and effectively in the years ahead.”