Italian Coast Guard to replace 40 vessels

The new vessels will be developed based on a design by VN Maritime Technologies that incorporates a unique hull technology by Icelandic company Rafnar.

Rafnar says its ÖK Hull technology, which has been licensed to VN Maritime for the coast guard vessels, has been inspired by ‘the Icelandic survival instinct’, which has resulted in a resilient, stable platform far less subject to dramatic slamming and capable of surviving the most extreme maritime environments.

The hull gives vessels reduced side slip, minimal wake, extreme agility and an extended lifespan, says Rafnar.

Unlike traditional Vee-shaped hulls, the Rafnar ÖK Hull has an arc-based keel and hull curves which, because water is suctioned out from underneath the hull, provide for a smoother ride.

The deep symmetrical keel generatres rearward water flow to reduce slamming, and the hull remains immersed rather than planing. Deck height is lower relative to waterline for better seakeeping.

Because of the Piloda Shipyard’s experience and repair services for military vessels, it has gained expertise suitable for coast guard vessels, it says. 

With its VM Maritime Technologies partnership it intends to develop joint projects for unmanned systems, it says, with details to be revealed over the next few months.

“We are putting into action a development vision that has long been lacking in Italy,” said Donato di Palo, CEO of Piloda Shipyard. “We saw it as essential to work with top-tier

partners to create cutting-edge projects—not just in terms of the naval platform, but also with regard to onboard technologies.

“Artificial intelligence and the most advanced design and construction techniques are at the core of our strategy. This enables us not only to meet the Coast Guard’s SAR requirements, but also to develop multi-purpose vessels suited for maritime law enforcement and, when necessary, combat operations.”

“The collaboration with Piloda Shipyard and the Turkish company VN Maritime represents a real opportunity to provide the armed forces with high-performance vessels, built using the best technologies available and with a direct presence on Italian territory throughout the operational life of each unit,” said VN Maritime Technologies CEO Orkun Özek. “This integrated model – from design to construction to technical support – ensures continuity, efficiency and innovation.”