MAIN FEATURES

The ship is extremely flexible based on construction design and has proven to be highly capable for a variety of tasks. Her features allow her to perform several roles:

a) AFLOAT COMMAND PLATFORM:

As a result of the conversion works in 2003, as already certified by NATO as well as field-tested in major exercises and operations, the ship is able to embark and support an afloat command in all its functions up to the level of Maritime Component Commander (MCC).

In particular, available on board are:

- two large staff areas, with individual workstations, areas for planning and conduct of operations, meeting rooms, VTC, etc.;

- an Operational Center, adjacent to and interoperable with the ship for the management of current operations;

- an integrated command and control system, at its core a combination of conventional and satellite communications, classified and unclassified computer networks providing interoperability between the embarked staff and other commands, domestic and foreign organizations, governmental agencies;

- logistic support, with specific reference to single and multiple berthing for approximately 140 persons, recreation areas, laundry, cafeteria, bar, gym, etc.;

- in a dual-use perspective of its capabilities, the spaces, systems and expertise available on board Etna can also be employed in synergy with or in support of civilian agencies and organizations operating for humanitarian emergencies.

b) FLEET TANKER:

Transportation and replenishment at sea of fuel, lubricants, ammunition, food, medical supplies and spare parts are provided by five replenishment stations (four amidships and one astern) and a flight deck for vertical replenishment operations, capable of operating up to a medium-heavy helicopter such as EH-101/AB-212/NH-90 (which can be recovered in the hangar). The power management function of the transported loads is fully computerized and can be employed for loading/unloading of materials in support of populations affected by natural disasters and/or in socio-economic conditions of need.

c) FLEET LOGISTIC SUPPORT:

The three workshops (helicopters, mechanical and electro-mechanical) provide an excellent technical ability to intervene in support of other units at sea for hull, engine and combat system repairs.

The machines, equipment and materials available, as well as the specialization possessed by the crew can be fully exploited to support and assist the population affected by natural disasters or victims of terrorist attacks, and to restore the essential functions for the management of everyday life, e.g. repair of machinery and tools, hydraulic lines, power lines, electric and internal combustion engines, etc.

d) FLEET MEDICAL SUPPORT:

ITS Etna can potentially be equipped to express up to a NATO Role 1+ hospital, with the capability to provide:

- medical advice and specialized treatment;

- triage, stabilization of wounded and onward movement;

- emergency dental treatment;

- radiological examinations and equipment for chemical/biological tests;

- life–saving and limb-saving surgery;

- early treatment of burns.

To ensure this level of medical support, when necessary, a team for emergency surgery is embarked (anesthesiologist, surgeon, orthopedic and dentist), which can provide assistance for a period of 20 continuous days to a naval group of 1,800 men. Even in this sector, the medical equipment on board, the spaces and the expertise available are compatible and comparable with the same founded on health care facilities such as Advanced Medical Posts and places Health and Social Care, which are essential for a rapid and immediate response in affected areas.

TECHNICAL FEATURES

- Displacement: 13.400 tons fully loaded

- Length: 146.6 meters

- Width: 21 meters

- Draft: 7.5 meters

- Flight Deck: 28(l) 21(w) meters; 1 medium/heavy helicopter

- Crew: 162/296 men and women

- Propulsion: 2x Diesel Sulzer 12-ZAV-40S

- Power: 23.186 HP (17.290 kW)

- Speed: 21 knots

- Endurance: 7.600 NM/18 knots

- Armaments: 2x 25/80 machine guns;

- Transport capability: 5,850 tons of diesel fuel – 1,580 tons of aviation fuel – 190 CUMs of water;

CREW

The crew consists of:

- Commanding Officer

- 12 Officers

- 126 Non-Commissioned Officers

- 24 Seamen

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