Delivery of the New Amphibious Assault Ship “Trieste” to the Italian Navy

Yesterday, the Trieste (L9890) amphibious assault ship was officially delivered to the Italian Navy.

Measuring 245 meters in length, 36 meters in width, and with a displacement of 38,000 tons, the Trieste is the largest naval unit built in Italy since World War II. It can accommodate up to 1,000 crew members, making it a powerful and versatile platform.

The ship is designed as a true multi-role amphibious unit, featuring a floodable well deck located beneath the aircraft hangar, which allows for the rapid deployment of amphibious vehicles.

Another standout feature of the Trieste is its onboard hospital, fully equipped to handle complex emergencies. It includes operating rooms, radiology and laboratory facilities, a 28-bed intensive care unit, and a 700-square-meter medical area. In extraordinary situations, additional beds can be set up using containerized modular systems.

As for its aerial capabilities, the ship is equipped with a 230 x 36-meter flight deck, covering an area of approximately 7,400 square meters. The deck features nine takeoff spots for heavy helicopters, such as the EH101 or NH90, and F-35B fighter jets. Additionally, a ski-jump ramp facilitates the takeoff of STOVL aircraft. In operational configurations, the flight deck can accommodate between 14 and 20 aircraft, while its fixed-wing component can include up to 20 F-35Bs.

The Trieste will be able to complement or replace the Cavour aircraft carrier during maintenance periods, ensuring that the Italian Navy always has an operational carrier available. This capability places Italy among the few nations worldwide with such strategic assets, making it unique in the Mediterranean region.