Horizon-class (Orizzonte)

The Horizon project emerged from the Common New Generation Frigate (CNGF) program, a tripartite initiative established by France, Italy, and the United Kingdom following the collapse of the NATO Frigate Replacement for the 90s project. Formalized in 1993, the program sought to develop a standardized air-defence platform. However, the collaboration faced immediate friction due to divergent operational requirements. While the United Kingdom demanded a vessel capable of providing wide-area fleet protection in hostile environments, France and Italy prioritized escort capabilities for carrier groups and operations within the Mediterranean under land-based air cover. These strategic differences, alongside disputes over industrial structure and vessel size, led to the United Kingdom's withdrawal in 1999. France and Italy subsequently proceeded with a bilateral agreement in 2000 to produce four units to replace their respective aging air-defence assets.

Classified as air-defence destroyers, these vessels are engineered around the Principal Anti Air Missile System (PAAMS). The primary armament consists of a vertical launching system capable of deploying a mix of short and long-range surface-to-air missiles. Surface engagement is facilitated by dedicated anti-ship missile launchers and multiple super-rapid gun mounts, with some units receiving upgrades for enhanced anti-missile roles using guided projectiles. The platform’s sensor suite is dominated by a multi-purpose phased array radar and a long-range search radar, integrated with infrared search and track systems and electronic warfare suites. For sub-surface threats, the ships utilize a sonar system and torpedo tubes. The hull accommodates a flight deck and hangar for a single maritime helicopter, while the propulsion system employs a combined diesel or gas configuration to maintain operational speeds.

The four completed vessels are divided equally between the French and Italian navies, entering active service between 2007 and 2009. These destroyers function as the primary air-defence screen for carrier strike groups, specifically supporting the Charles de Gaulle and the Cavour. Their deployment provides a defensive perimeter against aerial threats, utilizing high-data-rate tracking and automated fire direction. While the original program envisioned a larger fleet, the current inventory remains limited to two units per nation, serving as the frontline air-warfare assets within their respective maritime domains.