Fincantieri Unveils the Spectacular LSS “Vulcano” at Muggiano’s Dock
Trieste, March 12, 2021 – Today, the logistical support vessel LSS “Vulcano,” commissioned to Fincantieri as part of the renewal strategy for the Italian Navy’s fleet, has been handed over by the Naval Integrated shipyard located in Muggiano.
The long-term initiative for the rejuvenation of the Italian Navy’s fleet includes the construction, in addition to the LSS, of the transport and landing unit LHD (Landing Helicopter Dock) “Trieste” – currently under fabrication at this same shipyard with an anticipated delivery in 2022 – along with seven Multipurpose Offshore Patrol Ships (PPA), which will begin joining the fleet starting this year.
The essential feature that unites all three classes of vessels is their elevated level of innovation, endowing them with a considerable degree of efficiency and adaptability in fulfilling various mission profiles. Specifically, these are dual-use ships, meaning they can be employed for both conventional military objectives and community assistance (for instance, in civil protection), while also boasting a minimal environmental impact thanks to a cutting-edge auxiliary propulsion system that produces a low level of pollution emissions (electric engines).
The design of “Vulcano” is part of the FLOTLOG (“Flotte Logistique”) program, which encompasses the construction of four LSS designated for the French Navy, by the temporary consortium between Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Naval Group, under the Italian-French LSS Program managed by OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation). The manufacturing of the forward sections of these vessels has been entrusted to Fincantieri, which last month initiated the keel laying of the first ship at its shipyard in Castellammare di Stabia (Naples).
The “Vulcano” vessel is classified by RINA according to international regulations on pollution prevention, addressing both conventional aspects like those under the MARPOL Convention and emerging standards such as the Hong Kong Convention regarding vessel recycling.
Vessel Profiles – LSS – Logistic Support Ship
The LSS serves as a logistics support platform for the fleet, equipped with medical and healthcare provisions through a fully outfitted hospital, which includes operating theaters, radiology, examination rooms, a dental clinic, and patient rooms capable of accommodating up to 17 critically injured individuals. The ship amalgamates the capacity to transport and transfer to other vessels utilized for liquids (diesel, jet fuel, potable water) and solids (emergency components, food, and munitions) while also executing repairs and maintenance at sea for other ships. The defense frameworks relate to command and control capabilities in tactical environments, communication systems, and deterrent, non-lethal defense configurations. Additionally, the vessel is designed to support advanced defense systems, transforming it into an intelligence and electronic warfare platform.
- 193 meters in length
- Speed reaching approximately 20 knots
- 235 personnel capacity, including crew and specialists
- 4 replenishment stations on the sides and 1 at the stern
- Ability to supply potable water to onshore facilities
- Power delivery capability to land with 2500 kW
- Option to accommodate up to 8 living and medical modules
- Capacity for conducting rescues at sea, utilizing recovery and seabed operations (the vessel features a 30-ton stabilized offshore crane)
- Base for rescue missions utilizing helicopters and specialized boats
