Italian Navy Destroyer Caio Duilio Shoots Down Drone In Red Sea

This afternoon, implementing the principle of self-defense, the Italian Navy destroyer Caio Duilio shot down a drone in the Red Sea. The drone, with similar characteristics to those already used in previous attacks, was about 6 kilometers from the Italian ship, heading towards it.

Currently in the area to ensure freedom of navigation and the security of trade routes, D554 Caio Duilio replaced Italian frigate Federico Martinengo in the context of Italian maritime surveillance operations in the Red Sea. The effort began at the end of December, following attacks by Houthi militiamen against traffic sailing in the Strait of Bab-el Mandeb.

“The terrorist attacks by the Houthis are a serious violation of international law and an attack on the security of maritime traffic on which our economy depends. These attacks are part of a hybrid war, which uses every possibility, not only military, to harm some countries and benefit others,” said the Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto.

The Italian Navy combatant Caio Duilio is operating in the Red Sea to help protect international law and safeguard national maritime interests.

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No details have been released about the engagement of the Italian Navy destroyer, except for the distance. Caio Duilio is fitted with three 76/62 mm Super Rapido guns designed for close range air defence (CIWS). The radar-guided Strales-configuration of the guns featuring the DART guided ammunition makes the system the weapon of choice used for the engagement. However, the drone was engaged by the Super Rapido with conventional rounds according to an interview given to an Italian TV station by the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, yesterday.

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