Strategic Partnership Between Fincantieri and Defcomm Aims to Position Italy as a Global Leader in Autonomous Maritime Systems

Strategic Partnership Between Fincantieri and Defcomm Aims to Position Italy as a Global Leader in Autonomous Maritime Systems

(IN BRIEF) Fincantieri has signed a strategic partnership with Defcomm, an Italian startup specializing in unmanned maritime technologies, to accelerate the development of autonomous surface drones for surveillance, patrol, and intelligence missions. The co-investment agreement will drive the industrialization of Defcomm’s high-performance drones and allow Fincantieri to integrate autonomous systems into its naval platforms. The collaboration also supports training and operational demonstration programs for complex mission environments. Fincantieri CEO Pierroberto Folgiero emphasized the company’s leadership in naval innovation and commitment to advancing Italy’s technological independence, while Defcomm founder Federico Zarghetta highlighted the partnership’s goal of positioning Italy at the forefront of global marine drone innovation.

(PRESS RELEASE) TRIESTE, 20-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Fincantieri S.p.A., a global leader in complex shipbuilding and innovation-driven naval solutions, has entered a strategic partnership with Defcomm, an Italian startup specializing in unmanned maritime systems, to co-develop advanced autonomous surface drones for defense and security applications. The collaboration marks a major step in Fincantieri’s commitment to strengthening Italy’s industrial leadership in high-tech, dual-use maritime technologies and expanding its capabilities in unmanned surface and underwater platforms.

Under the terms of the agreement, Fincantieri and Defcomm will co-invest in the acceleration and industrialization of Defcomm’s surface drone technology. These drones, which have already successfully completed long-range and endurance testing, are engineered for surveillance, intelligence, and patrol missions. Distinguished by their high speed, adaptability, and ability to operate autonomously, remotely, or manually, they represent a significant advancement in maritime operations, offering flexibility for both civil and military use.

This partnership will also enable Fincantieri to integrate deployment systems for autonomous surface units aboard its naval platforms, enhancing the operational capabilities of its vessels for both domestic and international clients. In addition, the collaboration will include training programs to demonstrate the interoperability of these drones in complex mission scenarios, underlining their potential for coordinated naval operations and situational awareness.

“Through this partnership, Fincantieri reaffirms its position as an innovation leader and catalyst for the growth of Italy’s naval industrial ecosystem,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri. “Working with pioneering startups such as Defcomm allows us to anticipate the needs of a rapidly evolving global market and strengthen Italy’s technological sovereignty. This collaboration showcases our dedication to developing dual-use technologies that combine operational excellence, innovation, and national competitiveness.”

Federico Zarghetta, founder and CEO of Defcomm, added, “Our partnership with Fincantieri represents the natural evolution of our vision to push the boundaries of unmanned naval technology. By combining Fincantieri’s world-class shipbuilding expertise with our innovation in automation and communications, we aim to establish Italy as a global leader in high-performance marine surface drones. Together, we will bring to market cutting-edge systems that redefine maritime surveillance and defense.”

Through this initiative, both companies aim to foster a new generation of intelligent maritime technologies that enhance operational efficiency, strengthen Italy’s naval autonomy, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the global shipbuilding industry.

Fincantieri is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups, the only player active in all high complexity marine industry sectors. The Group is a leader in the construction of cruise ships, naval and offshore vessels, and stands out for its extensive experience in the development of underwater solutions, thanks to its integrated industrial structure capable of managing and coordinating all activities related to the commercial, defense, and dual-use sectors. It holds a strong presence in key markets also thanks to the internalization of high value-added, distinctive technologies; it is also a leader in sustainable innovation and in the digital transformation of the shipbuilding sector. The company is active in the field of mechatronics, electronics, and digital naval systems, as well as in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and marine interiors solutions. It also offers a wide range of after-sales services, including logistic support and fleet assistance. With over 230 years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri is a global player with a production network of 18 shipyards worldwide and over 23,000 employees. It maintains its know-how, expertise and management centres in Italy, where it directly employs over 12,000 workers and creates around 90,000 indirect jobs.

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SOURCE: FINCANTIERI S.p.A.