In May 2026, the city of Genoa will transform into a sea of "Penne Nere" (Black Feathers) as it hosts the 97th National Gathering of the Alpini (Italy’s elite mountain infantry). This massive event isn't just a parade of history; it is a high-tech crossroads where military tradition meets the cutting edge of amateur radio.
The heart of the event will be the Cittadella degli Alpini, an exhibition area managed by the "Taurinense" Alpine Brigade. Among the displays of modern tactical gear and mountain rescue equipment, a dedicated Amateur Radio Tent will serve as a global communication hub.
Operated by a joint team from ARI Genova (ODV) and the G.R.A. (Alpine Radioamateurs Group), the station will showcase the evolution of radio—from the manual skills of the past to the digital frontiers of 2026.
We invite the international amateur radio community to join us on the air. This is a prime opportunity to work a unique Italian station and add a prestigious reference to your logbook.
- Main Callsign: IZ1CCK (Alpine Brigade "Taurinense" station)
- Support Callsign: IQ1GE (ARI Genova)
- Responsible Operator: 1st Lt. (Ret.) Salvatore Bonomolo, IZ1BWB
- Radio Team: A combined squad of over 15 operators from ARI Genova and G.R.A.
- Activity Window: 07:00 UTC to 19:30 UTC daily.
- HF Bands: 15m, 20m, 40m, and 80m.
- Modes: CW, SSB, and Digital (FT8/FT4/RTTY).
- VHF Monitor: 145.425 MHz.
All contacts made during the event are valid for the "Penne Nere" Award issued by the G.R.A., with the official reference IZ1CCK G.R.A. 020.
Whether you are a fan of vintage "boatanchors" or a digital mode enthusiast, we look forward to hearing you in the pile-up. Let’s celebrate the history of the mountain troops by using the best tools the 21st century has to offer.
73 de ARI Genova & the Alpini Radio Team