Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri has held a steel-cutting ceremony for the ninth multipurpose combat ship (PPA) at the Riva Trigoso shipyard.
The ceremony, which took place on October 15, 2026, was attended by shipyard director Antonio Quintano and SVP of Operations, Naval Vessels Division, Attilio Dapelo.
The vessel is part of the renewal plan for the Italian Navy's operational lines. The program is approved by the Government and Parliament under the aegis of the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR).
The PPAs measure 143 meters in length, can exceed speeds of 31 knots, and support crews of about 171 sailors. Propulsion is provided by a combined diesel and gas turbine (CODAG) system complemented by an electric drive, enabling a blend of high performance and fuel efficiency.
Modular “fitted for” construction allows these vessels to be adapted over time: they can be delivered in a “light plus” configuration suited for patrol and self-defence, or equipped up to a “full combat” configuration with advanced defensive systems. This approach enables the Italian Navy to evolve capabilities based on strategic needs and technological developments.
The ships are also capable of deploying high-speed rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) up to 11 meters long, launched via side cranes or a stern ramp — an important feature for boarding operations, rescue missions, and maritime security tasks.
The ships are designed to operate effectively in all main defense domains, with the ability to carry out multiple missions to ensure the highest level of readiness and operational flexibility.
In February this year, Fincantieri cut steel for the eighth unit in Italy’s PPA program.