Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri has begun construction of a new multi-role vessel ordered by the Italian Coast Guard.
Designated as a "multi-role offshore vessel" (unita d'altura multiruolo; UAM), the 85-metre vessel will be fitted with electrically driven azimuth thrusters, two bow thrusters, a DP system, oil recovery equipment, and space for a helicopter deck as well as a rigid inflatable boat for search and rescue missions.
Wheeled vehicles can also be loaded onto the vessel by means of a boarding ramp.
The multi-role vessel will be built under an €80 million (US$90.4 million) contract, which also covers maintenance support during the first five years after delivery to the coast guard.
The UAM is scheduled for delivery to the coast guard by the end of 2027. The vessel's other duties will include fisheries enforcement, maritime traffic monitoring, and support of civil defence operations.
The contract awarded to Fincantieri in late 2021 also includes options for up to two additional UAMs.