Fincantieri PPA EVO model on display at Euronaval 2024. (Janes/Neil Dee)
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri has unveiled a new version of the Thaon Di Revel (PPA)-class multi-purpose combat ship dubbed PPA EVO.
In a briefing to assembled dignitaries and media at the Euronaval 2024 exhibition, held in Paris from 4 to 7 November, Fincantieri unveiled the evolved version of the PPA (Pattugliatore Polivalente dʼAltura – multi-purpose offshore patrol vessel), which is to feature a displacement greater than 6,000 tonnes, a length of 143 m, a beam of 16.5 m, a draught of 5.2 m, a top speed of 32 kt, over 5,000 n miles of range at cruise speed, and up to 171 crew. The EVO model is intended to be capable of tackling modern threats including unmanned systems, while being modular, scalable, and rapidly reconfigurable.
Equipment changes include a larger vertical launch system (VLS), with additional banks forward and amidships, allowing for up to 64 cells to be embarked. The PPA EVO is also intended to be capable of deploying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). Other equipment include eight anti-ship missiles, two helicopters (one AW101 and one NH90, or two NH90s), alongside a 76 mm main gun, 30 mm or 40 mm close-in weapon systems, torpedo launchers, and a towed array sonar system. In addition, a Fincantieri NexTech Omega360 radar, designed for counter-UAV tasks, and directed energy weapons may be embarked among other equipment.
The PPA EVO features two reconfigurable payload areas, one amidships and one at the stern, allowing for payloads such as special forces boats or equipment, or hospital equipment to be embarked.
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