Fincantieri has floated out a new patrol vessel slated for the Italian Navy.
The future Giovanni delle Bande Nere is the fourth in a series of multi-purpose offshore patrol vessels (Pattugliatore Polivalente d'Altura; PPA). Delivery of the vessel is scheduled for 2024.
Once completed, the vessel will have a length of 133 metres, space for 145 crewmembers, and a combined diesel and gas turbine (CODAG) propulsion system that will also include electric motors. The CODAG propulsion will deliver speeds in excess of 31 knots.
The vessel will also have deck space at the stern for one 11-metre rigid inflatable boat (RIB).
The PPA's other duties will include search and rescue (SAR) and civil protection.