On Monday 22 September, the change of leadership ceremony took place at the Poggio Renatico (FE) headquarters. Operations Department (OD). The Air Brigadier General Filippo Nannelli he has completed his term, passing the baton to Colonel Luca Crovatti, who will continue the work undertaken with dedication. The ceremony, attended by Air Division General Luca Maineri, Commander of the Air Operations Command (COA), emphasised the importance of continuity in leading this crucial unit.
In his speech, the General Nannelli He retraced the months spent leading the Department, highlighting the importance of teamwork and the value of the staff: “After just under a year leading the Operations Department, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know extraordinary, passionate and competent men and women up close, who have contributed to the success of our missions every day. I will leave with gratitude and pride for having been part of this prestigious Command. With emotion, they then revisited the experience, defining it “A human and professional journey, full of challenges and rewards. He went on to say, addressing the RO staff: “The true engine of the Department is not the structures or systems, but the people: capable of transforming every difficulty into an opportunity, every commitment into excellence.”. He finally addressed words of encouragement to his successor: “Dear Luca, you have already shown balance and passion in managing the true operational soul of the COA. Now you will also have the title, I am sure you will steer the ‘aircraft’ to its destination as only you know how.”.
It Colonel Crovatti, in his acting commander's speech, thanked the staff and outlined his vision for the future: “I approach this assignment with humility and a sense of responsibility. I know I can count on the extraordinary personnel of the Department, whose cohesion and dedication represent our true strength. Together we will continue to write pages of excellence for the Air Force and for the country. He recalled how, in the past, he had already temporarily carried out the duties of Commander of the RO, but felt deeply honoured today by the opportunity to hold this position with full official status. Colonel Crovatti then expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, highlighting the importance of every decision made by the RO. He finally addressed the staff with these words: “Each of you is fundamental to the Department's success. Competence, creativity and commitment will be key to tackling future challenges. Together we will continue to build excellence, always remembering that our strength lies in collaboration and team spirit.”.
It General Maineri, in his closing remarks, he expressed his esteem for the two officers and his appreciation to all the staff for the work doneI renew my most sincere thanks to all of you for your commitment and dedication shown. We look to the future with confidence, aware that challenges will not be lacking, but certain that together we will know how to face and overcome them. The Operations Department will continue to be a point of reference, an example of professionalism and cohesion in the service of the country.”.
It Operations Department The COA is one of the AM's nerve centres: it plans, coordinates, and monitors missions in Italy and abroad. With expert personnel and modern tools, it ensures readiness, effectiveness, and safety, embodying the Armed Force's spirit of service and excellence.
