The Italian naval flagship, worth 1.5 billion euros, is one of the largest vessels of its kind in the European naval fleet. Measuring 244 metres in length and 34 metres in width and weighing 27,100 tonnes, it can carry eight VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) aircraft, such as the AV-8B Harrier or the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, and 12 combat helicopters. It can develop a maximum speed of 27 knots and is operated by a crew of 545 members.
The visit is the result of friendship between Italy and Croatia and has nothing to do with a recent Russian-Serbian military exercise in Vojvodina, Admiral Andrea Gueglio told the press when asked if the ship's visit could be seen as a reaction to the military drill in Serbia's northern province.
"Our visit has been decided by the Italian Navy Command and has nothing to do with NATO. It's the result of friendship between our two countries, and NATO decisions are taken elsewhere, not here. The reason for our visit is exclusively of a bilateral nature," the Italian admiral said.
The ship's commander, Captain Luca Conti, said that the Cavour was a bridge connecting Italy and Croatia, and that it would be open for public viewing on Sunday from 10am until noon.