Fincantieri has launched the first platform of the Italian Navy’s next-generation offshore patrol vessel program in Riva Trigoso.
The Ugolino Vivaldi (P 440), built by Fincantieri and Leonardo joint venture Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, is the lead of four hulls to be deployed for surveillance and broader security along Italy’s exclusive economic zone.
Additional tasks of the fleet include traffic control support, communication line protection, and environmental conservation.
Rome is scheduled to receive the Ugolino Vivaldi by 2027.
Specifications
The Italian Navy’s modern offshore patrol vessel system has a length of 95 meters (312 feet) and a capacity for more than 90 sailors.
Among its advanced features is a special station that is intended for the Multi Purpose Combat Ships, another line of patrol boats derived from Fincantieri’s frigate design.
The capability centralizes control of combat functions, propulsion, and shipboard systems in a single hub, allowing management with only two personnel.
Although not specified, the vessel could potentially have performance based on the 95-meter type corvette under Fincantieri’s FCX product line.
That platform has a speed of more than 25 knots (46 kilometers/29 miles per hour) and a range of 4,500 nautical miles (8,334 kilometers/5,179 miles).
“The [offshore patrol vessel] program marks an important milestone, further strengthening its position as a global leader in naval defense through the FCX product family, of which the new patrol vessels are a part,” Fincantieri said.
“This project also confirms Fincantieri’s role as a strategic partner of the Italian Navy.”
