In the current geopolitical context, the Wider Mediterranean requires a continuous presence and the protection of underwater energy infrastructure, positioning the underwater component as a fundamental pillar of deterrence and surveillance. However, submarines suffer from a structural limitation linked to their dependence on land-based logistics bases  for supplies, maintenance and crew support, a constraint that reduces their operational permanence and strategic projection.

To meet this challenge, sub-lieutenant Domenico Lo Giudice developed, in his master's degree thesis, the preliminary design of the first Long Range Submarine Support Ship (LRSSS), a unit conceived to combine naval engineering and advanced operational support.

The study resulted in the definition of a platform approximately 140 metres long, designed to operate for four months away from national bases and capable of simultaneously supporting two submarines. The unit is configured to supply fuel, reagents and ammunition, provide electricity to the boats, perform advanced maintenance and conduct underwater search and rescue operations to a depth of up to 600 metres. The ship also incorporates a flight deck for EH101 helicopters, provision for unmanned aerial and underwater systems (UAVs and UUVs), advanced telecommunications equipment and an energy architecture aimed at reducing consumption and emissions in line with international environmental regulations.

This configuration is emerging as a strategic multiplier to extend the autonomy, resilience and persistence of the underwater component, while at the same time offering a strong dual-use value for support to Civil Protection, the protection of critical infrastructure and cooperation within NATO and Europe.

The author, an officer of the Italian Navy Engineering Corps, specialising in Naval Engineering, obtained a master's degree in Naval Engineering from the University of Genoa on 24 March 2026 and is currently assigned to MPCS (Multi Purpose Combat Ship) Thaon di Revel with the position of Platform Department Head.