OCCAR: FREMM EVO Program completes CDR

January 12, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The FREMM EVO Program has completed its critical design review (CDR) across all three domains: platform, combat system, and whole warship/integrated logistic support.

As disclosed, the achievement of this high-level objective (HLO) signifies that the design process of the FREMM EVO Program has met all the necessary requirements and marks the formal transition to the production phase.

According to OCCAR, the CDR completion, fully in line with the schedule, demonstrates that the Programme is on track to deliver two advanced naval units to the Italian Navy by June 2029 and June 2030, respectively.

These units will provide enhanced capabilities to meet evolving operational needs and strengthen maritime security.

Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN) is the prime contractor of this ambitious program. The contract, worth approximately €1.5 billion, was signed with OCCAR on July 31, 2024.

The keel for the first of two new FREMM EVO frigates to be built for the Italian Navy was laid in July 2025.

Fincantieri: Keel laid for Italian Navy’s first FREMM EVO frigate

Vessels

The FREMM EVO frigates will feature the latest anti-drone capabilities and the capacity for the operational management of unmanned systems across three dimensions (above the surface, on the sea, and below the surface).

More specifically, the main modernizations and technological upgrades will concern the ship management system, the air-conditioning and electrical distribution system, and the implementation of specific solutions aimed at improving the ship’s green footprint for the platform system.

Furthermore, the combat system will be upgraded with the modern combat management system SADOC 4, radar sensors (specifically with fixed-face X-C dual-band radars), which will be able to support defense against TBM threats, electronic warfare, and artillery and missile systems. The ships will also have the sonar suite, communication systems, and tactical data links, capable of ensuring the “highest level of interoperability”.