Italy to Invest €2.4 Billion in Naval Frigates to Boost Maritime Defense | Latest News 16 Dec 2025

Italy Plans €2.4 Billion Investment in Naval Frigates to Strengthen Maritime Defense

On 16 December 2025, Italy approved a €2.4 billion long-term program to support, maintain, and upgrade its naval frigate fleet as part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime defense. According to official government planning documents cited by international media, the investment will be spread over a 15-year period from 2025 to 2039.

The program is focused on ensuring the operational readiness and long-term effectiveness of Italy’s existing warships rather than only purchasing new vessels. Frigates remain a core component of the Italian Navy, playing a vital role in maritime security, NATO operations, protection of trade routes, and regional stability in the Mediterranean.

The €2.4 billion plan is structured around three key objectives. First, it will fund routine maintenance and life-cycle support to keep frigates combat-ready. Second, it will finance mid-life upgrades, including modern radar systems, sensors, communications, and defensive technologies. Third, the program includes long-term logistical and technical support to reduce downtime and maintain high fleet availability over the coming decades.

A major focus of the investment is Italy’s FREMM-class frigates, advanced multi-mission warships jointly developed by Italy and France. These vessels are capable of countering air, surface, and submarine threats and are considered among the most advanced frigates currently in service. Italy has already invested heavily in the FREMM program in recent years, highlighting their importance to national naval strategy.

The announcement comes as Italy and other European nations increase defense spending in response to growing geopolitical and maritime security challenges. NATO allies are under pressure to improve readiness and interoperability, particularly at sea, where protecting energy supplies, commercial shipping lanes, and strategic interests has become increasingly critical.

Overall, the €2.4 billion frigate investment reflects Italy’s emphasis on long-term defense planning. By prioritizing maintenance, modernization, and operational support, Italy aims to ensure its navy remains modern, reliable, and capable of responding to future security threats while continuing to play a strong role within NATO.