Primo Longobardo-class

Summary

Description

The Primo Longobardo (S 524) is a Sauro-class submarine serving with the Italian Navy. It was laid down at Fincantieri Monfalcone Shipyard on December 19, 1991, and subsequently launched on June 20, 1992. The commissioning of this vessel occurred on December 14, 1993.

This submarine's missions have been varied, encompassing a range of national and international operations. Domestically, Primo Longobardo has engaged in standard naval duties, including maritime surveillance in the enlarged Mediterranean to combat maritime terrorism. It also took part in law enforcement activities against drug trafficking, illegal immigration control, and environmental protection efforts such as monitoring hydrocarbon pollution. A vital role of the submarine has been in training naval personnel, participating in national exercises and collaboration with various Italian naval forces including Open Sea, Amphex, Tirnav, and Tiraer-Tireli cycles.

In terms of design and armament, the Primo Longobardo was initially outfitted with six torpedo launchers specifically for A-184 Mod.3 wire-guided torpedoes and had the capability to lay mines. It later underwent updates to prepare for the use of anti-ship missiles. Throughout 2011, the submarine worked with the NATO Underwater Research Center (NURC) to test the latest generation of acoustic and magnetic sensors. During this period, it also conducted numerous experiments with Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) equipped with bistatic sonar, highlighting its role in advancing naval technology and capabilities.

Technical specifications

Photo of Primo Longobardo class