The Italian Navy (Marina Militare) took a significant step in renewing its fleet with the launch of Ugolino Vivaldi, the first of the next-generation patrol vessels under the PPX Program. The ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s Riva Trigoso shipyard. The ship—part of a batch of four units—is intended to strengthen maritime surveillance, sea-control, and environmental emergency-response capabilities, with delivery expected in 2027.
The PPX Program was awarded to Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, a joint venture formed by Fincantieri and Leonardo, under the supervision of the Italian Ministry of Defense’s Naval Armaments Directorate. The event was attended by the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Italian Navy, Adm. Fabio Gregori; the Chief of Staff of the Liguria Region, Massimiliano Nannini; the Mayor of Sestri Levante, Francesco Solinas; and representatives from the naval industry, including Giovanni Sorrentino, CEO of Orizzonte Sistemi Navali. The ceremony’s sponsor was Alessandra Marsigli Cavriani, granddaughter of Lt. Cmdr. Alessandro Cavriani, a naval hero who lost his life in 1943 after scuttling the former destroyer Ugolino Vivaldi to prevent its capture.
The patrol vessel Vivaldi stands out for its combination of advanced design, process automation, and operational efficiency. With an overall length of 95 meters, a displacement of around 2,400 tons, and accommodation for 93 crew members, this new generation of ships was conceived to operate across a wide range of tactical scenarios and in adverse weather conditions. Among its most notable innovations is the integrated command bridge, developed by Fincantieri NexTech and Leonardo for the Thaon di Revel-class PPA multipurpose combat ships. This system allows control of the engines, rudders, and platform systems—as well as certain combat functions—with just two operators. The advance represents a generational leap in naval operations management, improving safety and reducing crew workload.
In terms of naval architecture, the PPX design introduces substantial improvements aimed at stability and maneuverability. Its hull features a bulbous bow and a fully covered mooring area, while active stabilizer fins ensure optimal performance even in heavy seas. The forward superstructure integrates a bridge with 360-degree panoramic visibility, followed by the combat information center, where tactical functions and sensor-control activities are concentrated. These features position the PPX as a versatile platform, adaptable to patrol missions, search and rescue, maritime traffic control, and response to pollution incidents.
The next-generation patrol vessel program responds to the Marina Militare’s need to maintain a sustained presence in its exclusive economic zone and protect maritime lines of communication. The ships have also been designed to carry out merchant-traffic monitoring, interdiction operations, and support missions in the event of toxic substance spills, reaffirming Italy’s commitment to maritime security and environmental protection.
It is worth recalling that in October 2025, Fincantieri and Orizzonte Sistemi Navali began construction of the second vessel of the class during a steel-cutting ceremony also held in Riva Trigoso. This step reinforced the continuity of the program—valued at approximately €925 million—and embedded within a broader Italian Navy modernization plan that includes the potential acquisition of up to six PPX-series units.
Image credits: Fincantieri.
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