Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN) has just announced a significant advancement in the modernization of the Italian Navy by signing a €1.5 billion contract with OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d'Armement) for the construction of two next-generation FREMM EVO frigates.This contract is part of the broader multi-year FREMM program, which aims to renew the Italian Navy's fleet with advanced naval capabilities.

The new FREMM EVO frigates will be at the forefront of naval technology and performance, building on the technological advancements achieved through previous programs such as the Mid Life Upgrade project for Horizon-class destroyers.

The Italian Navy will benefit from high operational performance and state-of-the-art systems, which include advanced anti-drone capabilities and the ability to manage unmanned systems across various operational dimensions—above water, on the surface, and underwater.

The engineering capabilities of OSN, which is a joint venture between Fincantieri (51%) and Leonardo (49%), will ensure that these vessels are not only operationally cutting-edge but also technologically sophisticated. The new frigates will enhance the Navy's defensive capabilities and operational flexibility, incorporating all Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) features currently in service.

The two FREMM EVO units will be constructed at Fincantieri’s Integrated shipyard located in Riva Trigoso and Muggiano. The first frigate is expected to be delivered in 2029, followed by the second in 2030.

The ships will retain the same ASW (Anti Submarine Warfare) capabilities and systems as the FREMM ASWs (such as, for example, the entire Thales sonar suite), whose performance has proven to be state-of-the-art.

The Ship Management System (by Fincantieri Nextech) will be upgraded, and will also improve itse Cyber resilience, as well as the air conditioning and electrical distribution systems. The combat system will be upgraded with the introduction of Leonardo's modern SADOC 4 CMS (also highly advanced in Cyber resilience). The new ships will also be able to operationally manage unmanned systems in all domains (UAVs, USVs, and UUVs).

As far as radar sensors are concerned, Leonardo's Dual Band Radar (operating in C-band and X-band) with 8 fixed faces will be introduced. The radar is capable of supporting anti-aircraft, anti-missile and anti-ballistic defence.

Electronic Warfare will be derived from the PPA's suite, therefore supplied entirely by the ELT Group and not by the Sigen consortium as on the first FREMMs. The communication systems and tactical links will also be of new generation (and leveraging on PPA/"Naval Law" derived technologies). The IFF is the new circular array, 64-element model, similar to that installed on PPAs. In addition, the ships will be fitted with two Leonardo NA-30 Mk-2 type fire control radars (dual band) capable of handling 76 mm guided munitions (DAVIDE/DART system).

As far as the rest of the armament is concerned, judging from the released images, the ships will be equipped with 2 x 76/62 mm guns in the DAVIDE/STRALES variant (as on the ASW-type FREMMs). Missiles will include 2 SYLVER-type 8-cell vertical launchers (most likely A50 model), with room (probably) for 2 additional optional complexes (highly desirable option). These systems are intended for launching missiles of the ASTER 15/30 family (up to the ASTER 30 Block 1 NT model).

As many as 8 MBDA's TESEO EVO anti-ship/land attack missile containers/launchers can be installed in the centre of the ship. CIWS capabilities are augmented by 2 Leonardo's LIONFISH 30 remote-controlled turrets for close-range and anti-drone defence (complexes equipped with Leonardo's new X-GUN 30 in 30x173 mm) that take the place of the 25/80 mm installed on the current FREMMs. For launching chaff/flare as well as anti-torpedo decoys, the two vessels will feature 2 Leonardo's ODLS-20 systems.

Admiral Enrico Credendino, Chief of the Italian Navy, highlighted that the acquisition of the FREMM EVO frigates is a crucial part of the Navy's modernization plan. He emphasized the need for the Navy to adapt to rapidly changing global security dynamics. The FREMM project has received international recognition, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies will enhance the Navy's capability to conduct a wide range of missions, ensuring national maritime security.

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, remarked on the importance of integrating naval expertise with advanced armament systems, reinforcing Italy's capabilities in military naval skills. Lorenzo Mariani, Co-General Manager of Leonardo, emphasized the project’s significance in providing reliable and sustainable naval units, showcasing the benefits of public-private collaboration in fostering technological advancements.

In the coming weeks, OSN plans to finalize sub-contracts with Fincantieri and Leonardo, valued at approximately €690 million and €415 million, respectively.