Taking a strategic step that will change the rules of the game in global naval warfare technologies, the Italian Navy has officially launched the long-awaited new generation DDX destroyer program. Orizzonte Sistemi Navali (OSN), established as a joint venture between Fincantieri and Leonardo, has signed a critical contract worth approximately 3.7 billion euros with the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR). This massive financial package, which also includes options worth approximately 1.3 billion euros, aims to maximize Rome's deterrence capacity in the Mediterranean and beyond.

The signed agreement covers the design, development, production activities, logistic studies, and Initial In-Service Support (ISS) processes for both DDX destroyers. According to the program's work-sharing model, OSN will execute sub-contracts worth approximately 1.8 billion euros with Fincantieri and 1.7 billion euros with Leonardo. While Fincantieri will serve as the main platform system integrator, Leonardo will lead the development of one of the most advanced digital combat architectures in naval warfare history.

Technical Capacity and Balances in the Field

The new generation DDX destroyers have been designed from scratch to adapt to the complex threat environment of modern naval warfare. Each platform, approximately 180 meters long and with a displacement of 13,500 tons, will achieve a cruising range of over 4,000 nautical miles and a crew capacity of 251 personnel. Equipped with an advanced DC power sub-grid, energy storage units, integrated stabilization and steering systems, the ships will stand out with superior thermal and electrical balance calculations.

The combat capability of the ship is essentially a technology showcase. By integrating Leonardo's SADOC 5 C5I system, high-power digital S-band AESA radar, and MBDA missile systems, a layered air and missile defense umbrella will be established against ballistic and hypersonic missile threats. Furthermore, ELT Group's new generation electronic warfare suites and close-in weapon systems equipped with smart ammunition will guarantee the operational survivability of the platform.

Conclusion and Future Perspective

The first unit of the two new generation DDX destroyers to be built with the joint power of Fincantieri and Leonardo is planned to join the Italian Navy inventory in 2033, and the second unit in 2035. Thanks to its modular and open architecture approach, this "system of systems," which is completely open to future technological integrations, will enable Italy not only to protect its national waters but also to assume a strategic role as a command and control center in multinational naval task forces.