Italy Begins Construction of Second FREMM EVO Frigate; Portugal to Buy Three

The European naval shipbuilding sector is seeing continued development with the recent commencement of construction for Italy's second FREMM EVO-class frigate. Fincantieri Group held a steel-cutting ceremony at its Riva Trigoso shipyard on July 23rd, marking the official start of the vessel's build.

This advanced frigate is part of an ongoing program managed by the European Defence Agency. Italy has ordered two FREMM EVO frigates, scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030. In a significant expansion of the program, Portugal announced this week its intention to procure three of the same vessels, also expected to be delivered before 2030. To date, the FREMM program has supplied 10 frigates to the Italian Navy and eight to the French Navy.

The FREMM EVO boasts a displacement of over 6,500 tons, positioning it as a large, modern surface combatant. It is equipped to carry anti-air and anti-ship missiles, as well as torpedoes, and includes capabilities for counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations. While retaining the hull and propulsion systems of the current FREMM frigates, the EVO variant features a completely redesigned superstructure. It integrates Italy's latest generation combat and ship management systems, incorporating elements from the amphibious assault ship ITS Trieste.

Key technological upgrades include the Leonardo Kronos dual-band radar system, featuring four C-band Kronos Quad active electronically scanned array antennas and four X-band Kronos StarFire antennas. This fixed-array system offers multi-directional surveillance, a significant enhancement over the single rotating radar on earlier FREMM models. Fincantieri highlighted that the FREMM EVO design prioritizes reduced environmental impact and improved operational readiness through maintenance plans. The presence of a Portuguese delegation at the ceremony underscores the program's transition from a national initiative to an international procurement project.