Rear Admiral, Head of Submarines and Underwater Dimension Department at the Navy General Staff

Rear Admiral Vito LACERENZA, a native of Lecce (1970), attended the Naval Academy in 1989 where he graduated in 1993.

He has got University degrees in “Computer Sciences”, in “Maritime and Naval Science” and in “Political Science”, a post-graduate Master in “International Strategic and Military Studies” and a 2nd level Master’s degree in “Global Strategy and Security”.

His academic education includes also courses at the Maritime and Military Studies Institute in Venice (2003-2004), at the Joint Services Staff College in Rome (2007-2008) and at the Institute for Advanced Defence Studies in Rome (2020-2021).

On completion of the initial training course at the Submarine School in 1994, he served aboard submarines as Navigator and Communication Officer (ITS Gazzana, 1994-1997), Sonar and Weapon Officer (ITS Marconi, 1998-2000) and Executive Officer (ITS Prini, 2001-2002).

As Commanding Officer he was in charge of the Offshore Patrol Vessel LIBRA (2002-2003), the Submarine TODARO (2006-2007), the Frigate ESPERO (2010-2011) and the Aircraft Carrier Garibaldi (2017-2018).

He also served at the Navy General Staff, in the Submarine Department (2008-2010) and in the Human Resources and Manpower Directorate (2011-2017). 

He was in charge of the Department for the Officers employment (2018-2021).

On 28th October 2021 he was appointed Commander of the Submarines, Head of Submarines and Underwater Dimension Department at the Navy General Staff, Head of the Submarines Programme Office at the Naval Armaments Directorate.

He is also the President of the Navy Sailing Centre in Anzio.

Rear Admiral Lacerenza is married and has two children.