Fincantieri cuts the steel for the second FREMM EVO frigate of the Italian Navy.

The Italian naval giant Fincantieri celebrated on July 23 the steel cutting of the second next-generation FREMM EVO (“EVOLUTION”) frigate for the Italian Navy at its Riva Trigoso shipyard, with the attendance of a Portuguese delegation.

Fincantieri shipyard (representative image)

At a glance

Event: steel cutting of the 2nd FREMM EVO frigate of the Italian Navy (July 23).
Location: Fincantieri’s Riva Trigoso shipyard.
Portugal: acquires 3 FREMM EVO frigates for about 3.9 billion euros, delivery 2029-2030.
Attendance: delegation from the National Directorate of Armament of Portugal (Rear Admiral Antonio Mateus).
Significance: the growing international dimension of the FREMM program.

Announcement details

Fincantieri began the construction of the second of two next-generation FREMM EVO frigates for the Italian Navy with a steel cutting. A Portuguese delegation led by Rear Admiral Antonio Mateus, Deputy Director of the National Directorate of Armament of Portugal, attended.

Portugal’s participation underscores the growing international dimension of the program, with the acquisition of three FREMM EVO frigates that will be delivered to the Portuguese Navy between 2029 and 2030.

System context

The FREMM EVO is the most advanced version of the Franco-Italian multi-mission frigate family FREMM. The EVOLUTION configuration incorporates updated radar and combat management systems, an enhanced sensor package, and greater weaponry capacity, combining anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and surface warfare.

The Portuguese agreement of 3.9 billion euros is developed from State to State with Italy and is part of a wave of European naval modernization.

Why it matters

The modernization of frigates in Europe shapes the competitive environment of the export market that Turkey pursues with its MILGEM and TF-2000 programs. The entry into service of the TCG Istanbul and the exports of MILGEM to Pakistan and Ukraine showcase Turkish naval platforms as a rising alternative.