Comandanti-class

The Comandanti class, designated Nuove Unità Minori Combattenti (NUMC), consists of four patrol vessels built by Fincantieri at the Riva Trigoso shipyard for the Italian Navy. The class succeeded the Nibbio-class hydrofoils. The design process was coordinated with the development of the Sirio-class patrol vessels to standardize logistics and combat systems. All four units were commissioned in January 2004.

The hull and superstructure utilize stealth-influenced geometry. Propulsion follows a Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) configuration using Wärtsilä-NSD diesel engines and two shafts with variable-pitch propellers. Maneuverability and stability are managed via twin rudders and active-fin stabilizers. Sensor systems include an X-band multi-mode search radar and fire control radar. Updates since 2012 integrated infrared search and track (IRST) systems and Link 11/16/22 data links. The vessels are equipped with an electronic warfare suite and a retractable hangar to accommodate an SH-90A helicopter. Two rigid-hulled inflatable boats are carried for maritime interdiction.

The class is assigned to the Forces Command for Surveillance and Coastal Defence (COMFORPAT), with a home port in Augusta. Operational duties include Mediterranean Sea patrols, maritime traffic monitoring, and immigration control. Comandante Foscari has been utilized as a platform for naval weaponry developments. In 2004, it conducted tests on stealth shielding for gun mounts, and in 2009, it began evaluations of the Strales/Davide program at La Spezia.