On May 29, 2026, the keel laying ceremony for the eighth Multipurpose Offshore Patrol Vessel (PPA) took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Riva Trigoso, near Genoa, marking another key milestone in Italy’s naval shipbuilding programme.
OCCAR press release
The event signifies the official start of construction activity on the vessel’s hull, with the completion and readiness of its first block. Representatives from industry and defence sectors attended the ceremony, underscoring the strategic importance of the PPA Programme for the Italian Navy.
The OCCAR-managed PPA Programme, led by industry partner, Fincantieri, is a cornerstone of Italy’s naval modernization efforts, aimed at delivering highly flexible and technologically advanced ships capable of performing a wide range of missions—from patrol and surveillance to high-intensity combat operations.
Originally intended to be built in the “Light Plus” configuration, the eighth PPA will instead be upgraded to a higher specification. This change follows the signing of Contractual Amendment No. 10 in April 2026, under which the vessel will be outfitted with a full combat system. Once completed, it will become the third ship in the class to feature this enhanced configuration, significantly boosting its operational capabilities.
According to the programme schedule, the vessel is expected to be launched in April 2028. Delivery to the Italian Navy is planned for 2030, when it will join the growing fleet of next-generation vessels designed to strengthen Italy’s maritime security and international presence.
The keel laying of PPA 8 reflects continued progress in the programme and highlights Fincantieri’s role as a leading European shipbuilder in the defence sector.
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