Italian Navy launches new logistic support ship

The Italian Navy has held a launching ceremony for the logistic support ship (LSS) Atlante, as part of the navy’s fleet renewal plan.

As informed, the ceremony took place at the Castellammare di Stabia Fincantieri shipyard on May 18, 2024.

Atlante, which is scheduled for delivery in 2025, is the second unit of this type built for the Italian Navy, with the first one Vulcano, delivered by Fincantieri in 2021.

The 193-meter long ship combines the capacity to transport and transfer liquid (diesel oil, aviation fuel, fresh water) and solid (respect parts, food and ammunition) cargo to other naval units and to carry out repair and maintenance operations at sea for other units.

Defense systems include command and control capability in tactical scenarios, communications and non-lethal deterrent defense systems. The unit is also capable of embarking on more complex defense systems and supporting intelligence and electronic warfare equipment.

The LSS will provide logistical support to the national naval component, possessing operational capabilities in a variety of areas: defense of vital national interests, defense of the Euro-Atlantic space, contribution to the realization of international peace and security, competitions and specific tasks including assistance in the event of public calamity.

The logistic support units are part of the navy’s fleet renewal plan, commissioned from the Temporary Grouping of Companies (RTI) formed by Fincantieri and Leonardo.

In particular, these units can also be used in a complementary manner in non-military activities such as Civil Protection support for humanitarian and rescue aid operations.

They also have a low environmental impact thanks to the adoption of advanced low-pollution generation and propulsion systems (generators and electric propulsion motors) and biological effluent control.