Report and photo by Robin Polderman
The Italian airbase of Trapani-Birgi, located on the island of Sicily, currently plays host to the Typhoon Flag 2025 exercise. The two-week training event, held annually, involves eight aircraft and crews from the four Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare Italiana – AMI) Eurofighter Typhoon wings (4°, 36°, 37° and 51° Stormo), which participate in complex exercise scenarios.
One of the aspects of the exercise is the integration of 4th- and 5th generation air assets, hence the participation of F-35 Lightnings from the AMI’s 6° and 32° Stormo in some missions.
The exercise is supported by the aircraft of the 14° Stormo, including the Gulfstream G-550 CAEW (Conformal Airborne Early Warning), and the KC-767 aerial refuelers.
In previous years, the exercise was held at the airbases of Gioia del Colle (2022 and 2024), and Grosseto (2023).
This year’s edition is hosted by Trapani's 37° Stormo and the main exercise area is located over the Tyrrhenian Sea, in between the islands of Sardinia and Sicily. The exercise is set to conclude on Friday 14 February 2025.