As search and rescue operations become increasingly complex, requiring close coordination between multiple agencies and nations, large-scale training exercises play a vital role in ensuring responders are prepared for real-world emergencies. The Italian Air Force’s GRIFONE 2026 exercise once again demonstrated the importance of multinational cooperation in some of the most challenging operational environments.
Held from 25 to 29 May in Sardinia, GRIFONE 2026 brought together military units, government agencies, emergency responders, and international partners for the Italian Air Force’s largest annual Search and Rescue (SAR) exercise. Operating from Tortolì Airport and across the rugged terrain of the Ogliastra region, participants trained in realistic scenarios designed to replicate the demands of actual rescue missions.
More than 500 personnel took part, including members of the Italian Air Force, the Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico (CNSAS), and crew and rotary units from the Italian Esercito, Carabinieri, Polizia di Stato, Guardia di Finanza, Guardia Costiera, Vigili del Fuoco, and the Spanish Air Force. The exercise underscored the importance of interoperability between organisations that may be required to work together during major emergencies.
At its core, GRIFONE 2026 focused on improving the coordination and execution of search and rescue operations in remote and mountainous environments. Success in these missions depends not only on aviation assets but also on seamless cooperation between aircrews, ground teams, medical personnel, command centres, and specialist rescue units operating under pressure and often in difficult terrain.
One of the main scenarios involved the simulated disappearance of a military aircraft in the Gennargentu mountain range. Rescue teams were tasked with locating the aircraft, identifying survivors, coordinating air and ground assets, and conducting recovery operations both by day and night. Supporting these activities was a Forward Operating Base established near the exercise area, providing communications, mission planning, meteorological services, medical support, fuel, and logistics. The deployment demonstrated the Italian Air Force’s ability to establish a fully operational command structure in a remote environment and sustain operations independently.
The exercise also showcased a diverse range of air assets, including helicopters from multiple Italian services, a Spanish Air Force helicopter, and unmanned aerial systems used for reconnaissance and search activities. The integration of traditional aviation platforms with drone technology reflects the continuing evolution of SAR operations and their ability to improve situational awareness and response times.
Full Participating Aircraft List:
Italian Air Force | 1x HH-139B | MM82018 / 15-67 |
Italian Guardia Costiera | 1x PH-139E | MM81948 / 11-15 |
Italian Vigili del Fuoco | 1x AW139 | VF-143 |
Italian Polizia di Stato | 1x UH-139C | MM81814 / PS-108 |
Italian Guardia di Finanza | 1x PH-139D 1x MH-169A | MM81946 / GF-407 MM82177 / GF-524 |
Italian Carabinieri | 1x UH-169C | MM82058 / CC-14 |
Italian Esercito | 1x AB412 | MM81361 / E.I.-470 |
Spanish Air Force | 1x S-76C | HE.24-1 / 49-01 |
Beyond the rescue scenarios themselves, specialist teams conducted environmental and technical assessments linked to simulated aircraft accidents. Activities included chemical monitoring, hazard evaluation, and the integration of firefighting personnel trained in radiological risk management. These scenarios helped participating organisations refine procedures, strengthen communication, and improve readiness for complex emergencies.
Among the most notable developments was the continued work on operational guidelines for the air rescue of individuals with non-motor disabilities, an area that remains largely absent from existing SAR doctrine. Working alongside healthcare professionals, academic institutions, disability organisations, and rescue specialists, the Italian Air Force is developing procedures aimed at improving communication, reducing stress during rescue operations, and ensuring recovery methods are adapted to individual needs.
GRIFONE 2026 demonstrated far more than technical rescue capability. It highlighted the growing importance of interoperability, innovation, and inclusivity within modern search and rescue operations. By bringing together military forces, civilian agencies, and international partners, the exercise reinforced the principle that successful rescue missions depend as much on coordination and shared expertise as they do on equipment and technology.
As operational challenges continue to evolve across the Mediterranean region, GRIFONE remains one of Europe’s most significant SAR training exercises, helping shape the future of search and rescue while strengthening cooperation between the organisations responsible for saving lives.
