Italy is adding its presence to the deterrence and defense operation around Cyprus with the frigate “Federico Martinengo,” which arrived today in Cypriot territorial waters, according to the Italian news agency ANSA, as part of a coordinated mission with Spain, France, and the Netherlands.

At least 160 members of the Italian Navy are aboard the vessel.

The arrival of the Italian frigate comes at a time when European countries are gradually strengthening their presence in the Eastern Mediterranean, following the escalation caused by the war with Iran and the strikes that Cyprus has faced.

ANSA reports that the “Martinengo” is specifically participating in an operation related to Cyprus, while the French aircraft carrier “Charles de Gaulle” is also present in the area.

This development is connected to the broader French plan to enhance naval presence in the Mediterranean and along critical maritime routes, which Emmanuel Macron had announced during a visit to Cyprus. At the same time, the Netherlands has already announced the deployment of a frigate to the Mediterranean on a mission to protect Cyprus and allied countries.

A ship with recent operational experience

The “Federico Martinengo” is not merely a showcase vessel. In 2025, it completed a mission as part of the European operation EUNAVFOR Aspides in the Red Sea, where it participated in protecting commercial shipping from Houthi attacks, before returning to the naval base in Taranto.

The deployment of the Italian frigate confirms that the military presence around Cyprus is no longer limited to one or two countries, but is increasingly taking on a distinctly European character. The practical message is that the security of the Republic of Cyprus is increasingly being treated as an issue of collective European defense, rather than something addressed merely through expressions of support.