The event was attended by senior defence and industry officials, including Admiral Chief Inspector Giuseppe Abbamonte from the Naval Armaments Directorate, and executives from Orizzonte Sistemi Navali and Fincantieri. This milestone follows the July 2024 contract signed by OCCAR and Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, a joint venture between Fincantieri (51%) and Leonardo (49%).
The FREMM EVO programme is part of a wider effort to modernise the Italian Navy’s fleet with next-generation multi-role frigates. The first unit is expected to be delivered in 2029, with the second to follow in 2030.
These vessels will feature advanced technological capabilities, including enhanced anti-drone systems and unmanned system integration for operations above, on, and below the sea. “The Italian Navy will be able to rely on two vessels ensuring high operational performance, with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge systems,” said Fincantieri representatives.
Upgrades will include a cyber-resilient Ship Management System, improved air-conditioning and energy systems, and eco-friendly platform enhancements. The Combat System will feature the new SADOC 4 Combat Management System, fixed-face dual-band radars for ballistic missile defence, and enhanced electronic warfare, sonar, and missile systems.
The frigates are also designed with robust maintenance planning to maximise operational availability and reliability. “These new platforms represent the most advanced expression of Italian naval engineering, blending performance, resilience, and sustainability,” said Giovanni Sorrentino, CEO of Orizzonte Sistemi Navali.
