According to information published by Fincantieri on June 29, 2023, the keel laying ceremony for "Atlante", the second Logistic Support Ship (LSS) for the Italian Navy, took place at the Castellammare di Stabia shipyard, marking a milestone in a program that includes a third ship.
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Keel laying ceremony of 2nd Vulcano class LSS Atlante. (Picture source: Fincantieri)
This development falls under the multi-year "Naval Act" program designed to secure Italy's Defense at-sea capabilities. Fincantieri, as part of this program, is currently constructing seven multi-purpose offshore patrol vessels (PPA) and the "Trieste" Landing Helicopter Dock.
In 2021, the group handed over the "Vulcano" LSS, a vessel partially assembled at the Castellammare di Stabia shipyard. The project also drew interest from the French Navy, which utilized it to shape the Flotlog program involving a series of units built in collaboration with the same shipyard.
These units can serve complementary roles in non-military activities, such as humanitarian aid and disaster relief. They also have a minimal environmental impact due to the use of low-emission generators, electric-drive propulsion motors, and biological waste control systems.
LSS
The second Logistic Support Ship (LSS) "Atlante" exhibits advanced capabilities and superior specifications. With a full-load displacement of 27,200 tons, the ship stretches to a length of 193m, with a breadth of 27.2m.
Its propulsion system adopts a CODLAD scheme that includes two MAN 20V32/44CR diesel engines, two electric engines from Marelli Motori, and four diesel generators. This arrangement facilitates a top speed of 20 knots, with a lower speed of 10 knots achievable on electric engines.
The ship boasts a range of 7,000 nautical miles at 16 knots, and can endure 30 days at sea. It can comfortably accommodate 188 crew members, with extra space for 42 transported personnel and 13 hospitalised.
Its comprehensive sensor suite comprises a 3D radar from GEM Elettronica, Leonardo IFF, and a GEM Elettronica helicopter landing radar, among other advanced systems.
"Atlante" can also accommodate two AW-101 helicopters in its hangar, with a spacious flight deck for CH-53 or MV-22 tilt-rotor aircraft. Among its additional features are four RAS (replenishment at sea) stations, a stern fuelling station, two stabilised cranes, and a selection of boats. Its total transported cargo capacity is up to 15,500 tons, further attesting to the ship's robustness.
