Italy is set to formally launch the procurement process for two next-generation destroyers for the Italian Navy on February 18, with an estimated program value of €2.7 billion ($3.17 billion). The vessels, to be built by Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, will replace the aging Durand de la Penne-class destroyers that have been in service since the early 1990s. Known as the DDX program, the ships represent an advanced evolution of the FREMM Evolution frigates currently under construction, themselves derived from the proven FREMM multipurpose frigate design. First conceived in 2020, the program faced delays due to challenges in finalizing operational requirements, pushing the production contract back by three years. The destroyers are expected to measure roughly 175 meters in length, displace crews of more than 300 personnel, exceed speeds of 30 knots, and operate using a CODOGAL propulsion system. Armament is projected to include multiple vertical launch system modules for Aster missiles, land-attack capabilities, and dual-helicopter aviation facilities.
