Article Posted on : - May 28, 2019

The new LHD of Italy being launched. Photo: Twitter

TRIESTE, ITALY (BNS): Italian Navy’s new multi-role amphibious platform, “Trieste”, has been launched at shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Castellammare di Stabia facility last week.

The new platform, a landing helicopter dock (LHD), was launched in the presence of Italian President Sergio Mattarella and other high level ministers and naval officials on May 25.

The multi-role amphibious vessel designed as “a flexible, modular unit” with a low environmental impact, would be capable of deploying aircraft and amphibious vehicles and equipment, relying on a flight deck and a floodable basin located on the stern of the ship, the Shipbuilder said.

“Trieste” will be delivered to the Italian Navy in 2022, it added.

The Italian Government in 2015 had approved funds to build the new amphibious platform for the Navy under the “Naval Defense Support” programme.

With a displacement of 33,000 tonnes, the LHD will be 214 meters long and cruise at a maximum speed of 25 knots. It would be able to accommodate a crew of over 1,000 personnel.