Italian Navy Commissions Ninth FREMM Frigate 'Spartaco Schergat' with Upgraded Capabilities
The Italian Navy has officially added the ninth FREMM (European Multi-Mission Frigate) to its fleet, as the warship Spartaco Schergat (F598) was handed over by Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, a joint venture between Italian defense giants Fincantieri and Leonardo. This new vessel represents another key step in modernizing Italy’s naval capabilities and strengthening its presence across a wide range of maritime missions.
The FREMM program—short for Fregata Europea Multi-Missione—is one of the most advanced and versatile naval projects in Europe. Designed to be highly modular, each FREMM frigate can be tailored for specific missions like general-purpose operations, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and air defense. The Spartaco Schergat will primarily focus on both general-purpose and ASW duties, enhancing the Italian Navy’s flexibility and readiness in multiple combat environments.
What makes this ninth FREMM particularly special is its technological edge over its predecessors. It features upgraded systems for modern sea control operations, including improved communication systems to better protect maritime lines and advanced tools for naval interdiction. These improvements are aligned with current and emerging naval threats, ensuring that Italy’s fleet remains capable in both traditional and hybrid conflict scenarios.
The Schergat will be based in La Spezia, a key naval hub on Italy’s Ligurian coast. From there, it will undertake patrols, training missions, and active deployments as part of Italy’s wider maritime defense strategy. Measuring 145 meters long and capable of carrying up to 200 personnel, this warship brings both size and strength to the table.
Technologically, the Spartaco Schergat is outfitted with cutting-edge sensors and weapons. It includes an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for tracking air and surface threats, hull-mounted and towed sonars for submarine detection, naval guns, autocannons, torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and air defense systems. Additionally, it has space for two maritime helicopters—typically the SH90 type—and a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) for special operations or search and rescue.
The propulsion system of the FREMM class is equally impressive. Each ship is powered by a combination of one gas turbine, two electric motors, and four diesel generators, giving it a range of 6,000 nautical miles and speeds exceeding 30 knots (approximately 56 km/h). This blend of speed and endurance ensures the FREMM can operate effectively in both coastal and blue-water missions.
Looking ahead, the FREMM fleet will continue to expand. Another hybrid-configuration frigate—designed to counter both surface and undersea threats—is expected to be delivered to the Italian Navy by August 2025. Beyond that, construction has already begun on two new-generation FREMM vessels, which are slated for delivery in the early 2030s. These next-gen ships will incorporate even more advanced combat systems and digital technologies to meet future maritime challenges.
The FREMM design is not exclusive to Italy. Its proven performance and modularity have led to its adoption by the navies of France, Egypt, and Morocco, demonstrating the international appeal and credibility of the platform.
With the induction of the Spartaco Schergat, the Italian Navy reinforces its commitment to maintaining a modern, capable, and flexible naval force—ready to protect national interests and contribute to international stability in waters near and far.
