Exercise Sorbet Royal will be conducted at sea in the Gulf of Taranto and the ships will be based at Taranto Naval Base.  The modern and sophisticated new operationial base at Taranto opened last year and has already set high standards in support and facilities.  Designed to accept the largest ships in current or planned service with the Italian Navy it has several deep berths and piers.  Serveral visiting NATO warships can be seen alongside, together with units of the Italian Fleet.

Known as the city of the two seas, Taranto is bounded by the Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande - the Small and Great Seas.  Dockings and other major maintenance are still performed in the 100 year old base inside the Mar Piccolo.  The ships will be alongside in Taranto Naval Base during the weekend of 25-26 June and will be open to visitors and members of the press.  Cancelled due to ship's operational requirements.