Vulcano-class (LSS)

The Vulcano class is a class of replenishment oilers developed to support fleet operations for the Italian Navy and the French Navy. The program was initiated under the Italian 2014 Naval Law to replace the Stromboli class. France joined the program in October 2018 through the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR) to replace its Durance-class tankers. The French variant, developed under the Bâtiment ravitailleur de forces (BRF) program, features a modified design with an increased hull length and displacement configured to carry more aviation fuel. The procurement plans outline four vessels for Italy and four for France. Fincantieri is the builder for the Italian vessels, while Chantiers de l'Atlantique constructs the French ships.

The vessels are designed to supply naval squadrons at sea with fuel and dry stores. Their functional capabilities include refueling other ships, producing fresh water, carrying cargo, and conducting repairs at sea using integrated maintenance workshops. The onboard medical facilities conform to NATO Role 2 LM hospital standards. Cargo transport capabilities encompass diesel fuel, aviation fuel, fresh water, ammunition, food rations, lubricants, and standard ISO containers. For aviation operations, the ships are equipped with an aft flight deck and a hangar capable of accommodating helicopters and tilt-rotor aircraft. Underway replenishment is managed via multiple replenishment at sea (RAS) stations, an astern fueling station, and stabilized cranes.

Construction of the lead Italian vessel, Vulcano, was split between the Riva Trigoso Naval Shipyard, which built the stern section, and the Castellammare di Stabia Naval Shipyard, which built the bow section. During its construction, a superstructure fire occurred in July 2018. Vulcano entered service with the Italian Navy on 12 March 2021. The second Italian ship, Atlante, began sea trials in the first half of 2025.

For the French Navy, construction of the first BRF vessel, Jacques Chevallier, began with steel cutting in May 2020, followed by sea trials in December 2022 and commissioning in November 2024. The second French vessel, Jacques Stosskopf, commenced sea trials in the first half of 2025. Construction is also underway on the third French vessel, Émile Bertin, which had its keel laid in August 2024.