A Milestone in Maritime Innovation: The Horizon Mid-Life Upgrade Programme
On April 4th, 2025, in Paris and Genova, a pivotal achievement was reached in naval modernization with the successful completion of the first “Critical Design Review” (CDR) for the Horizon Mid-Life Upgrade Programme. This significant milestone denotes the transition of the initiative from the design phase into the production phase, setting the stage for major enhancements in the capabilities of the Italian and French Navies.
The Horizon-Class Ships: A Legacy of Excellence
The Horizon-class vessels, including the “Andrea Doria” and “Caio Duilio” from Italy, alongside France’s “Forbin” and “Chevalier Paul,” were originally delivered between 2009 and 2011. With naval warfare evolving rapidly, these ships require a midlife upgrade to incorporate modern technologies and maintain their operational effectiveness. Scheduled between 2026 and 2030, this revitalization program is designed to extend the operational lifespan of these critical assets, ensuring they are outfitted with state-of-the-art technology and enhanced performance capabilities.
Collaborative Efforts Behind the Upgrade
The Horizon Mid-Life Upgrade Programme is a collaborative venture spearheaded by Naviris and the Italian-French defense company Eurosam, awarded in July 2023 by OCCAr (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armements). This cooperative initiative is supported by prominent naval entities, including Fincantieri and Naval Group, as well as renowned industry partners such as Leonardo, Thales, SiGen, and MBDA. Together, they are determined to navigate the challenges of modern naval warfare by ensuring these vessels are at the forefront of technological advancement.
Key Objectives of the Upgrade
The HRZ MLU Programme centrally addresses national defense requirements, focusing specifically on developing and integrating cutting-edge systems onboard. This includes enhancements to the Aster missile-based PAAMS (Principal Anti-Air Missile System) for Anti-Air Warfare (AAW), and the incorporation of advanced Electronic Warfare Systems (EWS). The upgrade seeks to counter modern threats while resolving existing obsolescence within the fleet. By integrating these systems, the Italian and French Navies aim to ensure continued reliability and effectiveness in their maritime operations.
The Path Forward: Integration Timeline
Following the completion of the System Design Review (SDR) in 2024 and the successful CDR in April 2025, an integrated approach towards system incorporation has been established. The integration schedule is particularly notable:
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For the Italian Navy: The installation of new systems on the First of Class ship is slated to commence in mid-2026, with Follow-on Ship upgrades set to occur at the end of 2027.
- For the French Navy: Similarly, the integration on the First of Class ship will begin in mid-2028, followed by upgrades on the Follow-on Ship at the end of 2029.
All activities related to the upgrades are anticipated to conclude by 2030, solidifying the Horizon-class vessels as cutting-edge assets for national defense.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Future of Maritime Defense
As the world of naval warfare continues to evolve, initiatives like the Horizon Mid-Life Upgrade Programme highlight the importance of adaptability and modernization in preserving national security. With collaborative efforts from key players in the defense sector and a proactive approach to enhancing military capabilities, both the Italian and French Navies are preparing to meet the challenges of the modern era head-on, ensuring their fleets remain formidable forces on the high seas.
This upgrade not only enhances the operational reach of the Horizon-class vessels but also signifies a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and resilience in the face of evolving threats.
