ROME – On Wednesday, a United States air base in Italy implemented a lockdown lasting several hours due to a potential car bomb threat targeting the facility. Upon investigation, authorities determined there was, in fact, no danger present.
The U.S. Navy reported through a statement that security forces took proactive measures by evacuating a gate at the Naval Air Station Sigonella and securing the facilities during the investigation process. Italian police in conjunction with bomb squad experts examined the suspicious package and concluded it posed no threat.
“We commend our Navy Security Force personnel for their swift and decisive actions,” the statement read. According to U.S. Navy Lt. Andrea Perez, who spoke to the press, the incident resulted in “no injuries.”
An Italian defense official, who chose to remain anonymous to adhere to guidelines, noted that the situation turned out to be a “false alarm that activated all necessary procedures.”
Situated just outside Catania on the Sicilian island, NAS Sigonella occupies a base belonging to the Italian Air Force, offering command and control functions for U.S. and NATO forces. As a strategically significant site on the Mediterranean Sea, it facilitates deployments across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The base is home to U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft and MQ-4C Triton drones. Additionally, personnel from the U.S. Space Force allocate their efforts towards detecting potential missile threats in the vicinity.
