Key Takeaways

• Italy has signed a €3.7 billion ($4.2 billion) deal for two new DDX destroyers to enhance its naval capabilities.
• The destroyers, built by Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, will be delivered in 2033 and 2035 and feature advanced technologies.
• This order continues the Italian navy’s fleet renewal, replacing the existing Horizon vessels.

Italy’s Naval Enhancement with New Destroyers

Italy has secured a significant upgrade in naval power with the signing of a €3.7 billion ($4.2 billion) deal for two state-of-the-art DDX destroyers. The agreement was facilitated by the European procurement agency OCCAR and formalized with Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN), an Italian joint venture dominated by state shipyard Fincantieri (51%) and state defense contractor Leonardo (49%).

The newly commissioned DDX destroyers, each with a displacement of 13,500 tonnes and a length of 180 meters, are set for delivery in 2033 and 2035. Designed to accommodate a crew of 251, these vessels will possess an impressive operational range of 4,000 nautical miles, positioning them as cornerstone assets for the Italian navy.

The destroyers will incorporate cutting-edge technology, including a combat system outfitted by Leonardo, characterized by “advanced digitalization.” This system will feature a DC power sub-network with an integrated energy storage setup, innovative stabilization capabilities coupled with the steering mechanism, and new algorithms for thermal and electrical balance calculations. Additionally, enhancements to the Ship Management System further exemplify the advanced naval architecture of the DDX class.

Significantly, the DDX destroyers will be equipped with Leonardo’s SADOC 5 command-and-control system, digital S-band AESA radar, and an array of MBDA weapon systems, underscoring their sophisticated combat readiness.

This acquisition continues Italy’s aggressive modernization efforts, following a series of investments that include the procurement of FREMM-class frigates, PPA multimission ships, a new landing helicopter dock, as well as new submarines and logistics vessels. The DDX destroyers will ultimately serve alongside and replace the Italian navy’s current Horizon vessels, signaling a comprehensive shift toward enhanced maritime security capabilities.

Amidst evolving global defense demands, this expansion and modernization reflect Italy’s commitment to maintaining a robust naval presence in the Mediterranean and beyond, ensuring that the Italian navy is well-equipped to face contemporary challenges.

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