Fincantieri, Navantia and Naval Group sign EPC2 Consortium Agreement at Euronaval 2026
Fincantieri, Navantia and Naval Group have today signed the consortium agreement for the second phase of EPC (EPC2) during Euronaval 2026. The ceremony, held in the presence of representatives from OCCAR (Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation), marks a significant step forward in the development of the European Patrol Corvette (EPC).
The signing ceremony brought together the CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, Pierroberto Folgiero; the president of Navantia, Ricardo Domínguez; and the CEO of Naval Group, Pierre Éric Pommellet, reflecting the shared commitment of industry to the future of European naval capabilities.
The agreement strengthens the cooperation between the three European shipbuilders and marks the transition from the initial design phase towards ready-for-production of a future class of Modular and Multirole Patrol Corvettes (MMPC).
Launched in 2019 under the European Union’s Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) framework and coordinated by OCCAR since 2022, the MMPC programme aims at developing a new generation of naval platforms capable of meeting the evolving operational requirements of European navies.
Supported by the European Defence Fund (EDF), the programme brings together industries and Participating States in Europe and represents a major example of European industrial and technological cooperation in the defence sector.
Today’s signing builds on the achievements of EPC1, which focused on conceptual studies, preliminary ship design, key technology development and the definition of common methodologies, standards and requirements. EPC2will advance the programme towards industrialisation by completing the preliminary and detailed design of the vessel while integrating a range of innovative technologies.
The programme will develop a common Full Combat Multipurpose (FCM) platform which will form the basis of a new class of corvettes. Based on a modular and adaptable design, the EPC will enable participating navies to tailor the platform to their specific operational needs while maintaining high levels of interoperability, standardisation and commonality.
Designed as a flexible, affordable and interoperable naval platform, the EPC will support a broad spectrum of missions ranging from maritime surveillance and offshore patrol operations to escort duties, maritime security and the protection of critical sea lines of communication.
Beyond its operational capabilities, the programme will contribute to strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy by supporting technological innovation, enhancing industrial capabilities, fostering a resilient European supply chain and improving the competitiveness of the European shipbuilding sector.
With the signing of EPC2, Navantia, Fincantieri and Naval Group reaffirm their commitment to European industrial cooperation and to deliver a common, innovative and future-ready naval platform that will strengthen Europe’s maritime security and defence capabilities for decades to come.
Participation at Euronaval 2026
As part of Euronaval 2026, the European Patrol Corvette will be showcased through a dedicated EPC booth, providing a platform for engagement with naval stakeholders, industry leaders and institutional representatives. The exhibition will offer an opportunity to present the programme’s latest milestones, demonstrate the benefits of a common European naval platform, and highlight the EPC’s contribution to interoperability, innovation and Europe’s strategic autonomy.
About Fincantieri
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, defence, and dual-use sectors. It holds a strong presence in key markets, also thanks to the internalisation 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 logistics 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 24,000 employees; It maintains its know-how, expertise and management centres in Italy, where it directly employs approximately 13,000 workers and creates around 90,000 indirect jobs.
About Navantia
With a history of more than 300 years linked to the construction of ships for the Spanish Navy, Navantia is a state-owned and strategic technology company for the defence of Spain. Its areas of specialisation range from shipbuilding (surface and submarine) to the design and integration of systems with a high technological content, life cycle support and high value-added services. Additionally, with its brand Navantia Seanergies, it is a global supplier for the development of offshore wind energy and other green energies such as hydrogen. Navantia employs 7,000 people directly in Spain, the UK, Saudi Arabia and Australia.
Committed to building a safe and sustainable future through technological excellence and industrial collaboration, Navantia has contracts with Governments and companies around the world and ties with universities and technological and academic centres. It contributes to sustainability and innovation through its daily commitment to people and the planet, with responsible practices from the point of view of labour, the environment and economic and technological development that are viable regionally, nationally and internationally. It is owned 100% by the Sociedad Española de Participaciones Industriales (SEPI), attached to the Ministry of Finance and Public Function of Spain.
