Diciotti-class

Summary

Description

The Diciotti class represents Italian-designed offshore patrol vessels, employed by the Italian Coast Guard, the Armed Forces of Malta, the Iraqi Navy, and Panama's SENAN. Fincantieri, a reputable Italian shipbuilder, conducts construction procedures in the Muggiano and Riva Trigoso shipyards.

Their origins are rooted in the earlier Saettia class, with the Diciotti class essentially comprising an upgraded version. They boast a longer length, increased power, and subsequently, greater patrol endurance.

Under the Armed Forces of Malta, the Diciotti class's design incorporates ample rear space, reinforced for landing a helicopter as sizable as an AW139. Its vessel weight is around 450 tonnes, with a reduced crew capacity of 25. Many rescue operations have been carried out via these patrol boats, including the rescue of 147 migrants and another of 97 migrants in 2019, among others.

The Iraqi Navy also uses the Diciotti class for its 58-kilometer coastline patrol duties. Contracts for these vessels' purchase include shipbuilding by Fincantieri at Riva Trigoso, logistical support, and crew training, all under the Italian Government's wings.

In 2006, the first ship, Patrol Ship 701, was launched and subsequently journeyed to Umm Qasr to take over British Royal Marine patrol duties.

Finally, Panama's SENAN received two Diciotti class patrol vessels, CP 902 Ubaldo Diciotti and CP 903 Luigi Dattilo, in April 2014. Delivered from Italy, they are now known as P 901 and P 902, respectively.

Technical specifications