FREMM Evo: the frigate that redefines the Italian Navy

The FREMM program (Frégate Européenne Multi-Mission), jointly developed by France and Italy at the end of the 1990s, initially planned for a total of ten ordinary units for the Italian Navy:

• 4 in ASW configuration (Anti‑Submarine Warfare), equipped with CAPTAS‑4 towed VDS and two 76/62 mm guns;
• 6 in GP configuration (General‑Purpose), without VDS but with a ramp for large RHIBs and a 127/64 LW gun instead of the 76/62.

This choice reflected the post-Cold War peace and patrol priorities, partly neglecting anti-submarine capabilities. However, the resurgence of Russian naval activities and the increase of non-NATO submarines in the Mediterranean led to a review of the equipment: in 2020, despite transferring two FREMM-GP to Egypt, the Navy ordered two “Enhanced/Hybrid” ships equipped with ASW sensors and countermeasures combined with the 127/64 LW caliber. These latter introduced a new Ship Management System by Fincantieri NexTech and the Zeus/Virgilius electronic suite.

The genesis of the FREMM-EV project

Starting from 2023, in parliamentary hearings and RID reports, the need for 2–6 new ASW frigates to complement the existing ten FREMMs emerged. Two work tracks were outlined almost simultaneously:

• FREMM 2.0 / FREMM-NG, a long-term project for a successor with greater tonnage and ample growth margin;
• FREMM-EVO, a short-term solution funded by the DPP 2023‑25, capable of incorporating rapid sensor improvements.

In June 2023, it was decided to switch to the fixed Kronos Quad radar (GaN AESA C-band) and, a few months later, to adopt the entire Kronos Dual Band system (C+X band) with 16 VLS cells for Aster 30 Block 1NT, integrating the CMS SADOC 4 and the SAAM-ESD++ system.

Characteristics and prospects of the FREMM-EVO

• Radar and air defense
  Kronos Dual Band C+X band, 16 Sylver A50 cells for Aster 30 B1NT, future CAMM-ER and MdCN options;
• Armaments
  8 Teseo Mk 2 EVO missiles, 2 OTO 76/62 Strales turrets, Lionfish 30 for anti-drone defense;
• Countermeasures and cyber-EW
  ADRIAN system dedicated to sub-100 kg drones, advanced jammer, new generation of IFF and datalink;
• Platform management
  Evolved CMS for integration of UAVs, USVs, UUVs and drone management;
• Contract and timelines
  Signed on July 31, 2024, with OSN (Fincantieri-Leonardo) for €1.5 billion (€750 million/unit); delivery expected between 2028 and 2029.
• Future flexibility
  VLS space reserved for additional modules or soft-launch CAMM-ER, EW and marine drone updates.

With the FREMM-EVO, Italy consolidates a class of frigates with high ASW and AAW capabilities, capable of defending the Mediterranean and participating in advanced NATO scenarios, while maintaining a strong national industrial base and ample technological growth margin.

In summary, the FREMM Evo is not just a new ship, but a true strategic pillar for the future of the Italian Navy, combining cutting-edge technology, operational autonomy, and a strong boost to the national industry.