Italian Navy Orders New-Generation Minehunters Worth €1.6B

Intermarine S.p.A., part of the IMS industrial group, and Leonardo S.p.A. have signed a contract with NAVARM, the Italian Directorate of Naval Armaments of the General Secretariat of Defence and National Armaments Directorate for the procurement of New Generation Minehunters/Coastal (NGM/C) and related integrated logistical support.

The contract, valued at €1.6 billion, includes the delivery of five vessels and approximately €1 billion in options for program completion.

Intermarine’s share of the committed tranche amounts to €1.165 billion (about 73%), while Leonardo’s contribution is €0.43 billion (about 27%). A similar distribution applies to the optional tranche. Intermarine will lead the Temporary Grouping of Companies and is responsible for the naval units' design and platform system, while Leonardo will provide the combat system and associated technologies.

This contract follows extensive research and development investments and builds on a 2021 agreement focused on risk reduction studies and defining the NGM Vessel project. The new minehunters are expected to feature advanced construction techniques and combat systems with high levels of integration and automation.

The program aims to address capability gaps and enhance the National Mine Countermeasures Component amid increasing international tensions and maritime threats. The NGM/C vessels, approximately 63 meters long and with a displacement of 1,300 tonnes, will be equipped to perform a range of missions, including mine clearance, seabed surveillance, and protection of critical underwater infrastructure.

The vessels will be constructed at Intermarine’s shipyard in Sarzana (La Spezia). Leonardo will provide a comprehensive combat system, including the SADOC 4 command and control system, advanced sensors, and broadband sonar.