Fincantieri has signed an agreement to upgrade the Italian Navy Pattugliatore Polivalente d’Altura (PPA) multipurpose offshore patrol frigates to a “full combat” configuration.
The program, overseen by OCCAR, will convert both “light” variants—primarily used for patrol, surveillance, and rescue—and “light plus” variants, which feature limited missile capability, into fully combat-capable platforms.
The upgrade will also integrate advanced cyber defense capabilities across the fleet. The initiative covers both already delivered ships and those currently under construction, ensuring the entire class meets the highest operational standards.
Fincantieri will invest approximately €62 million ($72.6 million) into the project and will collaborate closely with Leonardo S.p.A. throughout execution.
The PPA, also known as the Thaon di Revel-class, measures 143 meters in length with a beam of 17 meters. It is powered by a 43,000-horsepower gas turbine, twin 13,000-horsepower diesel engines, multiple generators, and electric propulsion units, enabling speeds exceeding 50 km/h and a range of around 5,000 nautical miles.
The vessels can be equipped with a vertical launch system for up to 16 missiles, alongside decoy launchers, a 127 mm naval gun, 76 mm air defense guns, 25 mm cannons, and a comprehensive electronic warfare suite.
