Fincantieri unveils first DEEP system in La Spezia, marking milestone in underwater drone technology development

Fincantieri unveils first DEEP system in La Spezia, marking milestone in underwater technology development

(IN BRIEF) Fincantieri has introduced its first DEEP underwater drone system at the Naval Support and Experimentation Center in La Spezia, marking a major leap forward in underwater innovation and maritime security. Designed for both civil and defense applications, DEEP integrates autonomous underwater vehicles, AI-driven analytics, and sensor networks to protect and monitor critical infrastructure. The launch strengthens Fincantieri’s position in the global underwater technology market, valued at €50 billion annually, and aligns with the company’s vision to lead sustainable, high-tech innovation in the underwater economy. CEO Pierroberto Folgiero highlighted DEEP as a key milestone in advancing Italy’s strategic and technological autonomy.

(PRESS RELEASE) TRIESTE, 24-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Fincantieri S.p.A., a global leader in complex shipbuilding and innovation-driven naval solutions, has launched its first “DEEP” underwater drone system during a live demonstration mission at the Naval Support and Experimentation Center in La Spezia, marking a major milestone in the company’s advancement in underwater technology. The event represents a defining step in Fincantieri’s strategy to expand its presence in the global underwater sector, reinforcing its leadership and setting a new standard for innovation, security, and sustainability in this critical field.

The launch event was attended by Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Defense Matteo Perego di Cremnago, Fincantieri CEO and Managing Director Pierroberto Folgiero, Mayor of La Spezia Pierluigi Peracchini, and other high-ranking guests including Admiral Enrico Credendino, Senator Roberta Pinotti, Chairman Biagio Mazzotta, Director of the Naval Vessels Division Eugenio Santagata, and Executive Vice President for the Underwater Division Gabriele Maria Cafaro.

The DEEP system is an integrated technological solution designed for the protection, management, and monitoring of critical underwater infrastructure and port areas, while also supporting environmental protection and research missions. Built with a dual-use design, DEEP can serve both civil and defense applications, enabling a versatile approach to operational and strategic needs across different sectors.

The system integrates multiple components, including a network of underwater sensors for early detection and surveillance, a Command and Control Center for real-time coordination, and a fleet of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) capable of conducting complex missions with varying levels of autonomy and collaboration. All of these are supported by an AI-driven data analysis system, which enhances situational awareness and operational efficiency.

This launch is a central part of Fincantieri’s strategy to strengthen its role in the underwater sector, guided by the Underwater Technology Hub—a cross-functional initiative that consolidates civil, military, and dual-use capabilities under one coordinated structure. This model enables Fincantieri to deliver high-value integrated solutions that address the evolving demands of both institutional and private clients in a rapidly growing market.

Today, the underwater domain is a crucial frontier for security, energy, environmental monitoring, and communications, with a global market estimated at €50 billion annually, of which around €22 billion is accessible to Fincantieri. The company is strategically positioning itself to be a global leader in this emerging field, leveraging its technical expertise and industrial ecosystem to develop the next generation of underwater infrastructure and defense systems.

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, stated:

“The launch of DEEP is tangible proof of our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation ever deeper. Today we have validated an integrated unmanned underwater system that offers an advanced and practical solution to the challenge of protecting critical infrastructure through the most sophisticated technologies available. This success reflects the excellence of our industrial network and our forward-looking approach to innovation, security, and technological independence. Fincantieri is proud to lead this transformation and contribute to the growth and resilience of the underwater economy.”

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.