The EPC is being developed within the PESCO framework and is supported by the European Defence Fund through the Multi Mission Patrol Corvette programme. Led by Italy, Spain, France and Greece, it involves 46 companies from 12 countries and aims to design and develop a modular, multipurpose and interoperable corvette.
The project is currently in its first call phase, approved under the EDF’s 2021 call, which seeks to achieve a certified design and build a prototype platform for two planned versions. These include the Full Combat Multipurpose variant and the Long Range Multipurpose patrol vessel.
Under the EDF’s 2023 call, €154 million was allocated for the second phase of the EPC programme. This phase focuses on further design work and the start of prototyping.
Navantia and Fincantieri will collaborate on the design of the Full Combat Multipurpose version and explore opportunities to commercialise it with other European partners. The joint venture will also be open to participation from additional project partners.
“Industry has a fundamental role in building Europe’s defence. With our collaboration, Navantia and Fincantieri are giving a significant boost to Europe’s defence capabilities. We will work together to define a new class of multipurpose, innovative, interoperable and cybersecure corvettes that meet the requirements not only of the Spanish Navy and the Marina Militare, but also of other European navies,” said Navantia’s Chairman, Ricardo Domínguez.
“This agreement marks a decisive step forward in the EPC programme, a project that embodies the spirit of European cooperation and technological excellence. By joining forces with Navantia, we are not only responding to the needs of our respective navies, but also laying the foundations for a new standard in European maritime defence. The EPC is more than a ship: it is a strategic platform for interoperability, innovation, and security, capable of strengthening the operational capabilities of Europe as a whole. Our joint venture is a testament to the industry’s ability to drive progress and unity, and to transform vision into concrete solutions for the future of European defence,” stated Fincantieri’s CEO and Managing Director, Pierroberto Folgiero.
