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DID has covered the Franco-Italian FREMM multi-role frigate project in the past. While discussing one of the program’s rockier periods, we noted the Italian push for the cheaper but lower-performance Avio LM2500 turbine (GE CF6-6 derivative, 32MW) over France’s preference for the Rolls Royce MT30 (36MW) to power the ships, a dispute that delayed the project for a full year. At stake was Italian Avio group’s 800-person Brindisi factory, which would probably have closed without the order.
The three year selection process finally ended in a formal way. Avio recently signed contracts with the French shipyard DCN and the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for the 27 LM2500+G4 turbines, starting with the option for the first 8 which will be delivered between 2008 and 2013. Avio estimates that the FREMM contract will be worth about EUR 150 million, as the turbines are assembled, installed, and serviced in the 10 Italian and 17 French ships which will enter service between 2011-2022. Avio will also supply other high-technology components such as the power system’s accompanying electronic management system (TCS).
The corporate release notes that “This contract will enable Avio to operate in the marine propulsion sector for the next 20 years.” Avio SpA is owned by the US Carlyle Group.