Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri is examining the feasibility of nuclear-powered vessels, CEO Pierroberto Folgiero revealed during a closed-door roundtable. The company, one of Europe’s largest naval contractors, is assessing how nuclear propulsion might apply to future warships.
The move signals a potential shift in European naval power projection. Nuclear propulsion offers extended range and endurance without refueling, capabilities that could reshape fleet operations in the Mediterranean and beyond.
Folgiero also touched on lessons from the war in Ukraine regarding naval drones, noting their growing role in modern conflict. The executive discussed the future of a common European patrol corvette, a joint development program that could see collaboration among EU member states.
Financial details of Fincantieri’s nuclear exploration were not disclosed. The company has not announced a formal development program or timeline for nuclear-powered vessels, suggesting the effort remains in early conceptual stages.
Industry analysts caution that nuclear propulsion faces significant regulatory, cost, and expertise hurdles in Europe. No European navy currently operates nuclear-powered surface combatants, and building such capability would require years of investment.