Launch of the New Generation Minehunter Coastal Vessels for the Italian Navy
On September 25, Intermarine, under the IMMSI industrial group, commenced hull lamination for the inaugural Cacciamine di Nuova Generazione Costiero (CNG-C) New Generation Minehunter Coastal (NGM-C) for the Italian Navy. This modern fleet initiative comprises two phases:
- Batch One: Eight Coastal platforms.
- Batch Two: Four larger vessels designed for expeditionary tasks.
Intermarine first unveiled these cutting-edge platforms at the Seafuture 2025 exhibition, introducing a new chapter in navy mine countermeasure capabilities.
Strategic Relevance of Mine Warfare
Recent global conflicts underscore the enduring significance of mine warfare. Naval mines remain a potent strategic asset and an effective offensive weapon with substantial psychological and deterrent impacts. Incidents in the Black Sea highlight how minelaying operations can swiftly disrupt maritime traffic, posing potential global economic repercussions.
As it stands, the Italian Navy’s mine countermeasures (MCM) forces are outdated, with the most advanced Gaeta-class and Lerici-class units nearing three decades of service. The integration of the NGM fleet marks a pivotal modernization effort, aimed at rejuvenating Italy’s naval mine warfare capabilities by the 2030s.
Advanced Specifications and Design
The NGM vessels are designed with:
- Dimensions: 63 meters for the Coastal version; the expeditionary version measures 81 meters.
- Construction: Both utilize composite materials to minimize magnetic signatures and enhance structural integrity against underwater explosives.
Intermarine’s advanced design techniques have positioned it as a global leader in the minehunter market, with 44 vessels sold and an additional eight under construction to meet various navies’ specifications.
Emphasis on Dedicated Platforms
While some maritime forces are experimenting with unmanned systems for MCM operations, the Italian Navy persists in utilizing specialized platforms built from composite materials to enhance safety and efficacy in mine threat zones. This operational philosophy acknowledges the current technological limitations of unmanned vehicles, including unpredictable mine threat boundaries and crew safety requirements.
Key Features of NGM Vessels
- Robust Construction:
- Monocoque single-skin technique without traditional structural reinforcements enhances resilience against underwater explosions.
- Operational Philosophy:
- Dedicated MCM vessels are capable of safe operations within minefields, equipped with advanced shock-resistant technologies.
- Technological Integration:
- Platforms are designed for modularity, interoperability, and multi-mission capabilities, accommodating advanced autonomous systems across diverse underwater operations.
Design and Development Process
The Italian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has established a collaborative partnership with Intermarine through a contract signed in 2021, aimed at developing the NGM fleet. Current contracts amount to €1.6 billion for five Coastal vessels, with options for three additional units totaling eight.
Intermarine has also expanded its facilities to accommodate the production of new platforms, including a 100-meter-long production hall and an 89-meter dock with advanced lifting equipment. This expansion may result in substantial workforce growth in the coming years.
Expanded Operational Requirements
Modern maritime operations require not only mine warfare capabilities but also various functions, including:
- Surveillance and protection of underwater critical infrastructure.
- Exploitation of seabed resources.
- Preservation of cultural heritage and environmental safety.
To address these needs, Intermarine’s vessels feature modular mission tool areas, capable of housing:
- Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
- Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
- One-Shot Mine Killers (OSMK)
- Various logistical support equipment
Comprehensive Sensor and Combat Systems
The NGM vessels will be equipped with a sophisticated combat system developed by Leonardo, emphasizing cyber-resiliency and effectiveness in MCM operations. Key elements include:
- SADOC 4 Command and Control System: Tailored software enhancing operational execution.
- Sensor Suite: Features radar and sonar systems for comprehensive monitoring, including a variable depth sonar (VDS) for mine countermeasures.
Capabilities of the Coastal NGM-C
The Coastal NGM-C will demonstrate:
- Displacement: 1,300 tonnes at full load.
- Speed: Maximum operational capability of 14 knots.
- Range: 1,500 nautical miles at economical speeds.
- Crew Accommodation: Capacity for 40 personnel, with additional berths.
Launch and recovery of unmanned systems will be facilitated via large lateral doors leading to a mission bay optimized for diverse applications, from underwater operations to logistics support.
The Expeditionary 81-Meter Version
Intermarine’s larger platform concept is a pioneering approach to MCMVs globally. Designed with:
- Displacement: 2,100 tonnes.
- Operational Speed: Capable of reaching 18 knots with an endurance of 3,000 nautical miles.
- Crew Capacity: Space for 50 personnel, extending operational autonomy.
The extended mission bay allows for sophisticated MCM tools and enhanced operational flexibility. Features include two sizes of operational doors, accommodating various unmanned and manned platforms.
In summary, the development of these next-generation minehunters positions the Italian Navy at the forefront of modern naval warfare, enhancing operational readiness against the evolving landscape of maritime threats. The increasingly complex nature of mine warfare, coupled with the seamless integration of autonomous systems, marks a significant shift in naval strategy both for Italy and NATO allies.
