From 8 to 16 September, the Italian Air Force is taking part in the Bari trade fair. On Saturday 8 September, the Fiera del Levante – one of the leading trade fairs in Italy and the Mediterranean, now in its 82nd edition – was officially opened. The ceremony was preceded by a tribute to the fallen, led by the Minister for the South, Senator Barbara Lezzi, who, representing the Prime Minister, laid a wreath at the Military Memorial to the Fallen Overseas in Bari, together with Air Force General Umberto Baldi, Commander of the Italian Air Force Schools/3rd Air Region and of the Military Garrison of Bari, laid a laurel wreath at the Military Memorial to the Fallen Overseas in Bari. Following the official opening ceremony, General Baldi visited the Italian Air Force exhibition, which showcased various operational capabilities within its designated area. Visitors were able to try out the Frecce Tricolori simulator, which allows them to experience the sensations and thrills felt by the pilots during their aerobatic displays, and view an MB 339 aircraft bearing the livery of the National Aerobatic Team (P.A.N.), on display in its own area, which showcased various operational capabilities. the International School for pilots destined for jet aircraft and a leading centre in the field of advanced flight training, along with some flight equipment and an ejection seat from the aforementioned aircraft. Visitors can climb aboard a LAK-17A glider used by the 60th Wing in Guidonia (RM), which is employed for the selection and basic flight training of military pilots in the Italian Air Force. Making its debut at the Fair is the Mobile Operations Centre of the Mobile Command and Control Unit based in Bari Palese, which is deployed nationwide to enhance air defence capabilities and in operations outside Italy’s borders. The 16th Force Protection Wing based in Martina Franca (TA) is present with a number of vehicles and items of equipment necessary to ensure the protection of Italian Air Force personnel and infrastructure both in Italy and abroad. In particular, the Light Multi-role Tactical Vehicle (V.T.L.M.) known as the ’Lince“, the Strix-C mini-drone, and the materials and equipment required for the disposal of explosive devices. Finally, the 2nd Technical Communications Unit from Bari Palese is exhibiting meteorological equipment and Mobile Radio Units (U.R.M.) used for Search and Rescue (S.A.R.) operations, Civil Protection and as a back-up for an airport control tower. The unit is deployed in support operations for populations affected by severe natural disasters. As usual, the Italian Air Force’s participation in Bari’s historic trade fair was warmly received by the huge numbers of visitors who flocked to the stand on the very first day. The staff on duty were delighted to explain to them the functions and duties of the Armed Forces, which are committed on a daily basis, 24 hours a day, to serving the country and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The event consequently offers an excellent opportunity for interaction and dialogue with the diverse sections of society, from which inspiration can be drawn for the further development of the Armed Forces themselves.
The Air Force Schools Command/3rd Air Region, based in Bari, is one of the three apex commands of the Armed Force. It ensures the selection, recruitment, military, cultural and professional training of Air Force personnel, and flight training (at an international level), through the study and adoption of innovative teaching and training methodologies focused on the learner and informed by innovation, creativity, optimisation of human and material resources, eco-sustainability, and constant engagement with institutions and the local area in service of the community.
