Italy eyes naval drone carrier opportunities under Project Sciamano
An artist’s impression of Portugal's Plataforma Naval Multifuncional ship. The Italian Sciamano project looks to be taking a similar approach. (Image: Portuguese MoD)
Italy has revealed details of a new programme to develop a naval vessel designed to act as a mothership for uncrewed systems.
The programme, dubbed Sciamano, aims to deliver a concept design for the Sciamano Drone Carrier (SDC). The SDC will feature a control, command and communication (C3) network intended to operate drone swarms along with dedicated launch and recovery systems (LARS).
According to a document published by the Italian MoD in October, work on Sciamano will start with a study phase, focused on setting out requirements and identifying appropriate technologies.
The effort will then move on to conceptual design of subsystems, a critical stage that will help steer technical and operational requirements for the SDC.
Phase 2 will involve creation of a virtual model of
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement]()
Australia is ramping up its uncrewed surface fleet as Sea Archer lines up for key requirement
As advances in uncrewed technology increasingly shape Australia’s maritime future, Shephard spoke with the country’s head of navy capability and a Leidos Australia executive about the operational advantages behind the shift.
-
![Gulf tensions force Western navies to confront mine warfare shortfalls]()
Gulf tensions force Western navies to confront mine warfare shortfalls
The conversion of RFA Lyme Bay comes during signs that European navies may once again need to cooperate on Gulf mine clearance operations.
-
![What does Saab’s operations shake-up mean for its new ‘Naval’ chapter?]()
What does Saab’s operations shake-up mean for its new ‘Naval’ chapter?
Saab’s merger of its Kockums and Naval Combat Systems divisions into a single business area called Naval, effective 1 April 2026, aims to enhance efficiency, innovation and competitive positioning in the naval sector.
-
![Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions]()
Iran and the future of amphibious operations: crewed and uncrewed solutions
Amphibious operations are a very unique type of military operation, and global defence industries are developing new solutions to enhance capabilities and efficiency.
-
![US Navy to acquire and test uncrewed surface vessel prototypes by the end of FY2026]()
US Navy to acquire and test uncrewed surface vessel prototypes by the end of FY2026
The new autonomous surface vessels are planned to be operationally fielded in FY2027, following the completion of on-water trials.
