Fincantieri has cut steel for the ninth Multipurpose Patrol Ship (PPA 9) at its Riva Trigoso shipyard, marking the start of construction on the Italian Navy’s final PPA vessel.
OCCAR press release
On October 15, 2026, the First Steel Cutting Ceremony for the ninth Multipurpose Patrol Ship (PPA 9) was held at Fincantieri’s integrated shipyard in Riva Trigoso, officially marking the commencement of construction of the vessel and a significant milestone for the Programme.
The ceremony represents the formal launch of production activities for the ninth unit of the PPA Class, which will become the seventh and final ship delivered to the Italian Navy under the Programme.
In accordance with established shipbuilding tradition, the laser cutting machine was ceremonially activated by representatives of the Italian Navy, acting as Customer, OCCAR as Contracting Authority, and FINCANTIERI as Prime Contractor. The event marked the first physical stage in the construction process and underscored the continued cooperation between all Programme stakeholders.
Following Contract Amendment No. 10, PPA 9 will be constructed in the Full Combat Configuration, the most advanced and capable variant of the class. Designed to conduct operations across the full spectrum of maritime missions and principal warfare domains, the vessel will incorporate enhanced combat system capabilities to ensure the highest standards of operational readiness, survivability and mission effectiveness.
The commencement of construction of PPA 9 demonstrates the continued progress and maturity of the Programme, which remains a cornerstone of the Italian Navy’s fleet renewal effort. To date, five of the seven vessels contracted for delivery to the Marina Militare Italiana, the Italian Navy have entered service, while the sixth unit, PPA 8, is currently under construction.
As the seventh and final unit to be delivered under the Programme, PPA 9 represents the culmination of a significant naval procurement initiative, providing the Italian Navy with a highly capable, flexible and technologically advanced platform designed to meet current and future operational requirements.
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