Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and Spain’s Navantia have signed a memorandum of understanding to create a joint venture supporting the multinational European Patrol Corvette (EPC) program.
Supported by the EU’s Permanent Structured Cooperation framework and the European Defence Fund, the EPC initiative seeks to deliver a standardized and interoperable surface combatant fleet for the navies of Italy, Spain, France, and Greece.
Pending final agreements and regulatory approvals, the new venture will oversee the design of the Full Combat Multipurpose variant and assess broader EPC export opportunities with other European partners.
After completing the design stage, prototyping will begin, including parallel development of the Long-Range Multipurpose Patrol configuration, the program’s second variant.
The state-owned companies stated that the joint venture will remain open to additional industrial partners, aiming to foster broader collaboration and introduce next-generation warships by 2030. The EPC program currently involves more than 40 firms across 12 nations.
Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvette
Also referred to as the Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvette, the EPC vessel will measure about 110 meters (361 feet) in length with a draft of 6 meters (20 feet).
It will feature a combined diesel-electric propulsion system capable of reaching speeds up to 26 knots (48 km/h or 30 mph). Armament configurations will vary depending on customer requirements, and the flight deck will accommodate a maritime helicopter comparable in size to the NH90.
