After returning to Italy in 1888, Bausan joined fleet manoeuvres that the navy presented as a statement of strength, especially in comparison with France. The force brought together four ironclads, four protected cruisers, four torpedo cruisers, and smaller vessels. Its close-order drills included both attacking and defending the naval base at La Spezia. Bausan then appeared in a naval review for Kaiser Wilhelm II, converting exercises and fleet composition into a display of diplomatic status. These readiness demonstrations served foreign policy as well as training.
Notable Point · 19:47-20:30
Fleet manoeuvres and a naval review advertise Italian strength
Italian exercises around La Spezia and a review for Kaiser Wilhelm II turn Bausan from a combat unit into evidence of national naval readiness.