Italy is Designing New Helicopter Landing Ship

Sea Power, Aug 2005

The Italian Navy has begun its preliminary studies for a new multimission landing helicopter ship (LHD). The initial studies were scheduled to be completed by July and will inform the naval staff as to key cost and capability parameters for vessels of this type. Although the new program has yet to be funded, the Italian Navy is looking at two different designs that could eventually replace the San Giorgio-class Landing Platform Dock (LPD) ships currently in service.

The Italian Navy is looking for a new vessel in order to improve the transport and helicopter assault capability for the sea service. Keeping its options open, the Italian Navy is considering a through-deck design that also could replace the Garibaldi-class aircraft carrier.

Requirements indicate that the new LHD would be about 200 meters (656.1 feet) in length with a displacement of about 20,000 tons. The vessel would be able to handle up to four EH-IOl helicopters and have a well deck for the operation of four landing craft. The carrier option would require a throughdeck design for fixed-wing aircraft such as the AV-8B Harrier.

The Italian Navy will likely make a decision on the final design by the end of 2006 in order to move forward with the new class. A construction contract could be in place by 2008 with the first unit scheduled for commissioning by 2012. At least two new LHDs would be required to replace the three San Giorgio-class LPDs.