Fincantieri and Leonardo’s joint venture, Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, has successfully delivered the ninth European multi-purpose frigate (FREMM) to the Italian Navy at its facility in Muggiano. The newly commissioned vessel, named Spartaco Schergat (F598), will be stationed in La Spezia and is set to engage in a range of operations, including general-purpose missions and anti-submarine warfare. This deployment aims to provide a well-rounded contribution across various combat domains.
The Spartaco Schergat marks a significant advancement in capabilities compared to the earlier eight FREMM frigates. It features improved technologies for maritime communications, enhanced sea control, and new solutions to tackle naval interdiction challenges. Following the induction of the Schergat, the Italian Navy anticipates the arrival of an additional FREMM platform equipped with hybrid capabilities for countering surface and undersea threats, scheduled for delivery in August 2025. Furthermore, two additional unnamed vessels in a next-generation FREMM configuration are slated to join the fleet by the 2030s, with construction commencing in early April.
The FREMM frigate class, utilized by the Italian Navy, measures 145 meters (476 feet) in length and is capable of accommodating up to 200 personnel. Each frigate is outfitted with advanced systems, including an active electronically scanned array radar, various sonar systems, and a suite of weapons that encompasses naval and acoustic guns, autocannons, torpedoes, and anti-ship and aerial missiles.
Designed to support operational versatility, the FREMM class vessels can also carry two maritime helicopters, similar to the SH90 rotorcraft, along with a rigid hull inflatable boat. Each ship within this class is powered by a gas turbine, two electric motors, and four diesel generators, enabling a remarkable operational range of 6,000 nautical miles (11,112 kilometers/6,905 miles) and the ability to reach speeds exceeding 30 knots (56 kilometers/35 miles per hour).
In addition to their service in Italy, the FREMM design has been adopted by military forces in France, Egypt, and Morocco, highlighting the platform’s international significance and versatility in modern naval warfare.
