Italian Navy Takes Delivery of Multi-Role Frigate ‘Emilio Bianchi’
The Italian Navy has received the multi-role frigate “Emilio Bianchi,” developed as part of the Italy–France bilateral defense cooperation managed by OCCAR.
Built at Fincantieri’s Integrated Shipyards in Riva Trigoso and Muggiano in Italy’s north, the vessel integrates advanced systems from Leonardo, MBDA, and Elettronica.
The Emilio Bianchi measures 144.6 meters (474.5 feet) in length with a beam of 19.7 meters (64.6 feet) and a full-load displacement of around 6,700 tons.
It is powered by a combined diesel-electric and gas turbine propulsion system, enabling a top speed of over 27 knots (50 kilometers/31 miles per hour).
At a cruising speed of 15 knots (28 kilometers/17 miles per hour) it has a range of about 6,000 nautical miles (11,100 kilometers/6,900 miles).
The ship features the Kronos Grand Naval AESA radar, an integrated sonar suite, and Aster surface-to-air missiles.
It also integrates a 127mm (5-inch) naval gun, torpedo launchers, and accommodation for one NH90 helicopter.
FREMM Frigates
The Emilio Bianchi is the tenth and final ship under the FREMM (European Multi-Mission Frigate) program.
Italy’s FREMM fleet includes four General Purpose, four Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), and two ASW Enhanced configurations.
The first vessel was delivered in 2013, while the program was launched in 2005.
All frigates feature extended range capabilities, automated systems, cyber resilience, and a modular design.
“The FREMM program is the most important joint initiative developed between European naval industries and represents the state-of-the-art of Italian and European defense,” stated Fincantieri.
The company added that, in line with the FREMM project objectives, two next-generation “EVOLUTION” frigates are currently under construction at Fincantieri’s integrated shipyards in Riva Trigoso and Muggiano, with deliveries planned for 2029 and 2030.
