IVECO Defence Vehicles (IDV) recently participated in the “Stella Alpina 24” training exercise, which brought together over 600 Italian Army soldiers from specialized units for two weeks of intensive training. The exercise took place in the challenging terrain of the Marmolada Mountain foothills and was designed to test and demonstrate the Italian Army’s technological advancements and adaptability in multi-domain operations. The “Stella Alpina 24” exercise highlighted the Italian Army’s focus on adapting its capabilities and embracing technological innovation to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. This multi-domain training scenario demonstrated how cutting-edge vehicles, systems, and equipment—some newly acquired or recently entering service—are being integrated to enhance operational effectiveness and agility.
Central to this operation were two of IDV’s Viking Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and a self-driving, Optionally Uncrewed Light Multirole Vehicle (LMV). One Viking UGV was configured for multi-domain ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) missions, while the other supported combat roles. The self-driving LMV, meanwhile, provided convoy support in high-risk scenarios. These advanced systems played a key role in a simulated mission to recapture a strategic dam near Canazei, which had been taken over by hostile forces. The Viking UGV is a versatile, multirole platform designed by IDV Robotics, boasting a hybrid powertrain and independent suspension, which enables it to operate efficiently across complex terrains. With a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio and a highly adaptable chassis, Viking can carry substantial payloads at speed. Its spacious and configurable payload area makes it ideal for a variety of roles, including last-mile resupply, casualty evacuation, surveillance, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) responses, and fire support missions.
A key part of the exercise involved the integration of traditional combat tactics with advanced technological innovations, such as cyber and electromagnetic capabilities, to maintain strategic advantages against adversaries. The exercise included a simulated tactical action to recapture the Fedaia Dam, showcasing the Army’s ability to combine conventional combat skills with state-of-the-art cyber and electromagnetic strategies. One of the standout elements of this training was the role of the newly formed 9th Cyber Security Department “Rombo.” This unit established a secure combat network and a Multi-Domain Tactical Bubble—an array of cyber and electromagnetic measures aimed at protecting operational units, their systems, and communication networks. This “tactical bubble” proved essential in maximizing the effectiveness of kinetic operations and safeguarding forces deployed at the dam. It also facilitated coordination among various units, including the infantry, cavalry, artillery, and engineers of the Alpine Brigade “Julia,” as well as Special Forces from the 185th Paratrooper Regiment for Reconnaissance and Target Acquisition, and Italian Army Aviation helicopters.
The exercise demonstrated the Army’s increasing reliance on advanced, unmanned systems. This includes remotely piloted air, land, and water vehicles, new satellite communication technologies, anti-drone systems, and autonomous or remote-controlled weapons platforms. These technologies, along with AI-supported threat detection tools and enhanced Command and Control systems, represent the future of a more technologically advanced and agile Italian Army. IVECO Defence Vehicles’ contributions to “Stella Alpina 24” underscore their commitment to supporting the Italian Army’s modernization efforts. Through their innovative UGVs and autonomous vehicle solutions, IDV continues to play a crucial role in the Army’s transformation into a force that is not only capable in traditional combat scenarios but also equipped to tackle the challenges of digital and cyber warfare.
