Italy will deploy the missile frigate Federico Martinengo to defend Cyprus amid the war with Iran, Italian officials announced on Friday.
The vessel will carry at least 160 navy personnel and forms part of a coordinated effort involving Italy, Spain, France and the Netherlands.
The Martinengo last year completed its participation in the EU’s EUNAVFOR Aspides mission in the Red Sea, returning to its home base in Taranto after protecting commercial vessels from Houthi threats.