| Builders | Fincantieri |
| Active | 1 |
| Operators | Italian Navy |
| Built | 2001-2008 |
The Cavour Aircraft Carrier is a symbol of Italy’s naval power and technological advances. The Cavour Aircraft Carrier has not only played an important role in Italy’s naval defence capabilities, but has also made significant contributions to global operations. In this comprehensive article, we will examine the rich history of the Cavour Aircraft Carrier class, its mission capabilities, armament, user nations, general characteristics and lasting impact.
The Cavour (Italian: portaerei Cavour) is an Italian aircraft carrier that was launched in 2004. It serves as the flagship of the Italian Navy.
Cavour Aircraft Carrier Project History
The carrier’s construction began in July 2001. Initially, it was intended to be named Andrea Doria, but it was later christened Cavour after Camillo di Cavour, Italy’s first prime minister. Fincantieri
On 20 July 2004, the ship was launched, followed by nearly four years of sea trials. It was officially commissioned into the Italian Navy on 27 March 2008.
Mission Description of the Cavour Aircraft Carrier
The primary missions and roles of the Cavour Aircraft Carrier class within the Italian Navy are multifaceted. Its contributions to Italy’s maritime defense capabilities and global operations are significant, reflecting its adaptability and strategic importance in various naval scenarios. The ship class’s versatility and functionality make it an indispensable asset to the Italian Navy.
Ships in the Class
The Cavour Aircraft Carrier is the only ship of its class.
Cavour Aircraft Carrier Armament Load
| Air Defence Systems | 4 × 8-cell A-43 Sylver launchers with MBDA Aster 15 surface-to-air missile. |
| Guns | 2 × 76/62 mm OTO Melara Strales guns 3 × 25/80 mm Oerlikon Contraves |
| Decoy | 2 × ODLS-H/ODLS OTO Melara decoy launching systems |
Cavour Aircraft Carrier Specifications
| Displacement: Approximately 27,100 metric tons (26,700 long tons) (30,000 MT at full load). | |
| Length: 244 meters (800 feet 6 inches) overall. | |
| Beam: Varies from 29.1 meters (95 feet 6 inches) to 39 meters (127 feet 11 inches) molded breadth. | |
| Draught: 8.7 meters (28 feet 7 inches). | |
| Propulsion: COGAG scheme with; 2x shafts 4x General Electric/Avio LM2500+ gas turbines providing 88,000 kW (118,000 bhp) 6x diesel generators Wärtsila CW 12V200 (13,200 kW or 17,700 bhp). | |
| Speed: Capable of reaching +29 knots (54 km/h; 33 mph) (maximum sustained speed at 85% MCR). | |
| Range: Covers 7,000 nautical miles (13,000 km; 8,100 miles) at 16 knots (30 km/h; 18 mph). | |
| Complement: Total crew of 1,202 (with an option for 90 more). Includes 5 Flag Officers and VIPs, 486 crew members, 211 embarked air wing, and 140 C4 staff, 360 troops | |
| Other specs: 4 LCVP, Flight deck: 232.60 meters (763 feet 1 inch) × 34.5 meters (113 feet 2 inches). Hangar capacity: 134.2 meters (440 feet 3 inches) × 21.0 meters (68 feet 11 inches). |
Aircraft Carried
| 12x F-35B Lightning II or 24x C1 ARIETE MBT |
| 4x NH-90 |
| 3X AgustaWestland AW-101 |
The Cavour played a crucial role in Haiti earthquake relief operations as part of Operation White Crane in early 2010. Also Turkiye’s 2023 earthquakes…
The Cavour continues to serve actively, combining its diverse capabilities in naval operations.
