NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA, SICILY (Oct. 31, 2024) – On October 28, the U.S. Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily proudly commemorated a pivotal moment in its evolution with a groundbreaking ceremony for its new headquarters building at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the establishment of a modern facility dedicated to enhancing the command’s operational capabilities.
The upcoming state-of-the-art headquarters will serve a crucial role by consolidating all NCTS administrative, personnel, and operational functions into one technologically advanced secure building. This innovation is set to bolster the command’s mission of delivering reliable and consistent command, control, communications, computer, and intelligence (C4I) services, as well as information technology solutions across the vast Mediterranean theater of operations.
NCTS Naples Commanding Officer and Task Group Commander Capt. Craig Gabriellini shared his enthusiasm for the new headquarters, highlighting its role as a significant investment in the command’s mission, team development, the establishment of new partnerships, and its enduring legacy within the Navy. “This new facility is significant and meets the mark in both long-term advantage and operational capability, so I’m very excited for you all to be a part of that today,” said Gabriellini. “What NCTS Sicily does for the United States Navy, the mission you’re contributing to… and your coalition partners, is pretty significant; this represents an amazing opportunity.”
Alongside senior leadership from NCTS Naples, the event was attended by dedicated service members and personnel from both NCTS Sicily and the Public Works Department Sigonella, emphasizing the collaborative effort in this important project. The attendance at the ceremony underscored the sense of community and shared commitment to excellence amongst the team members.
Capt. Aaron Shoemaker, commanding officer of NAS Sigonella, acknowledged the critical role of communication in military operations, stating, “As the hub of the Med, Sigonella is home to a host of operational units, and communication functions are key to allowing every single one of our tenant commands, deployable units and service providers to accomplish their missions.” He further conveyed optimism about the new station’s potential to streamline communications not only at the local level but also throughout the expansive area of responsibility for the 6th Fleet.
NCTS Sicily occupies a strategically vital position in the central Mediterranean and continuously executes operations to secure access and superiority within the electromagnetic and cyberspace domains. This capability is essential for supporting U.S., NATO, and coalition forces operating effectively in the regions covered by U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa Command, and U.S. Central Command.
Naval Air Station Sigonella plays a critical role in providing consolidated operational support, command and control capabilities, alongside administrative and logistical support to U.S. and NATO forces. Its advantageous location empowers U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond swiftly, thereby reinforcing security and stability across Europe, Africa, and the Central Command region.
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**Interview with Capt. Craig Gabriellini, Commanding Officer of NCTS Naples**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Capt. Gabriellini. Can you start by sharing what this new headquarters building means for NCTS Sicily and its personnel?
**Capt. Gabriellini:** Thank you for having me. This new headquarters signifies a transformative step for NCTS Sicily. It is a major investment not just in infrastructure, but in the people who operate within it. By consolidating our administrative, personnel, and operational functions into one state-of-the-art building, we will enhance our efficiency and effectiveness in delivering command and control services across the Mediterranean theater.
**Editor:** You mentioned the importance of this facility in terms of enhancing operational capabilities. Can you elaborate on how it will achieve that?
**Capt. Gabriellini:** Absolutely. The modern design and technology embedded in this building will significantly improve our ability to provide reliable C4I services and IT solutions. In a rapidly evolving operational environment, having a robust facility that supports our technical and operational needs is essential for mission success. This not only strengthens our internal processes but also reinforces our partnerships with coalition allies in the region.
**Editor:** It sounds like the new headquarters will foster collaboration. How do you view the relationship with coalition partners in light of this development?
**Capt. Gabriellini:** The relationships we build with our coalition partners are incredibly important to our mission. This new facility enhances our capacity to work together seamlessly. With improved technology and communication capabilities under one roof, we will be better positioned to share information, coordinate responses, and support joint operations. The future looks promising, and I’m excited about the potential for greater collaboration.
**Editor:** You spoke about legacy and endurance within the Navy. What do you envision as the long-term impact of this new building for the NCTS mission?
**Capt. Gabriellini:** This facility is set to become a cornerstone of NCTS Sicily’s operations. The long-term impact will be seen in improved operational readiness, enhanced training opportunities for our personnel, and stronger partnerships with other military branches and allies. We’re not just building a building; we’re building a legacy where future generations can thrive, innovate, and contribute to maritime security in the Mediterranean. I believe this investment will resonate through the decades to come.
**Editor:** Thank you, Capt. Gabriellini, for sharing your insights. It sounds like an exciting time for NCTS Sicily and the Navy as a whole.
**Capt. Gabriellini:** Thank you. It truly is an exciting time, and I look forward to seeing how this facility will elevate our mission and the contributions of our dedicated personnel.
