The contract follows a U.S. Navy request for proposals issued in February 2026 for up to 35 ships under the program. It enables early procurement of long lead-time materials and supports production readiness, with construction expected to begin as early as the fourth quarter of 2026.
The Medium Landing Ship program is intended to support distributed operations, improve mobility in littoral environments and enhance the rapid deployment and sustainment of forces. It is a key component of both the Navy’s future fleet and the U.S. Marine Corps’ evolving force structure.
The initial award represents a first step ahead of potential future construction contracts under the Vessel Construction Manager model. Under this approach, additional contracts will be issued subject to approvals and contractual arrangements.
“The award of this contract represents an important step in the evolution of our long-standing partnership with the U.S. Navy,” said Pierroberto Folgiero. “It reflects the confidence placed in the industrial capabilities built in the United States and in our ability to support complex naval programs with discipline, speed, and technical excellence. Through sustained investment, a skilled workforce, and a resilient industrial base, Fincantieri stands ready to support the Navy as they advance new operational concepts and future force requirements.”
Folgiero added that the Vessel Construction Manager model introduces new industrial practices to naval shipbuilding. “By adopting the VCM model, the U.S. Navy is reshaping naval shipbuilding through the application of commercial best practices, parallel production, and disciplined industrial execution.”
He said the company brings a scaled industrial platform in the United States to support the effort. “In this context, Fincantieri brings a uniquely scaled industrial platform in the U.S., combining advanced shipyard infrastructure, production depth, and globally integrated technical expertise to deliver complex naval programs with certainty and momentum.”
Over the past decade, Fincantieri has invested more than $800 million in its U.S. shipyards. The company said these investments have strengthened its ability to support multiple naval programs and respond to evolving operational requirements.
Fincantieri Marine Group employs approximately 3,000 workers in the United States. The company said it continues to expand its workforce, industrial footprint and technological capabilities to support long-term Navy requirements and the growth of the U.S. maritime industrial base.
