On 25th November 2020 in La Spezia, the Contract Amendment N° 4 between OCCAR-EA (on behalf of the Italian Participant State) and the Temporary Consortium, consisting of Fincantieri and Leonardo Company, was signed. The new Amendment introduces technical modifications to LSS “Vulcano” equipment to meet Italian Navy’s needs. It includes the acquisition and the integration on board of the New Generation Surface Radar Columbus and the implementation of new equipment concerning the Hospital Area. ITS “Vulcano” is currently undergoing sea trials as part of the Qualification and Acceptance phase. She is scheduled to be delivered to the Italian Navy at the early beginning of 2021, and will see the kick-off of the In Service Support phase. Vulcano was financed under the 2014 Naval Law, for Euro 346 millions, then increased to Euro 374,6 millions, when length was elevated by about 12 m.
A5335 Vulcano is an auxiliary ship that will enter in service with the Italian Navy in 2020. She is designed to support fleet operations with fuel and dry stores. Along with another future sister ship, she is expected to replace the AORs Stromboli (A5327) and Vesuvio (A5329). Vulcano is being built by Fincantieri with hull number 6259. The stern section is being built at the Riva Trigoso Naval Shipyard and the bow section is being built at the Castellammare di Stabia (Naples) Naval Shipyard. Vulcano is designed as a support ship able to supply a large squadron at sea. As such, she has the capability to: refuel ships, produce fresh water, carry cargo, Hospital NATO Role 2 LM and conduct repairs at sea with integrated maintenance workshops. The French Navy through OCCAR ordered four modified ships of the class to replace its Durance-class tankers to be delivered in 2022, 2025, 2027 and 2029.
