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**Italian Navy Officially Commissions New Landing Helicopter Dock Ship "Trieste"**
The Italian Navy has reached a significant milestone in its modernization efforts with the official commissioning of its new Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) ship, *Trieste*. This state-of-the-art vessel, which represents a leap forward in Italy's naval capabilities, was formally inducted into service during a ceremony attended by high-ranking military officials, government representatives, and international dignitaries. The commissioning of *Trieste* underscores Italy's commitment to enhancing its maritime power projection, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief capabilities.
### A New Flagship for the Italian Navy
The *Trieste* (L9890) is the largest and most advanced ship ever built for the Italian Navy, measuring 245 meters in length, with a displacement of approximately 33,000 tons. Designed and constructed by Fincantieri, one of the world's leading shipbuilding companies, the vessel is a versatile platform capable of performing a wide range of missions, from amphibious operations to disaster response and medical support.
The ship is named after the northeastern Italian city of Trieste, a historic maritime hub that symbolizes Italy's naval heritage. The *Trieste* is expected to serve as a flagship for the Italian Navy, complementing the aircraft carrier *Cavour* and reinforcing Italy's role as a key player in NATO and European Union maritime operations.
### Cutting-Edge Capabilities
The *Trieste* is classified as a Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD), a type of amphibious assault ship that combines the capabilities of a helicopter carrier and a dock landing ship. Its design allows it to support a wide range of operations, including the deployment of troops, vehicles, and aircraft. Key features of the *Trieste* include:
1. **Aviation Facilities**: The ship boasts a 230-meter-long flight deck with six helicopter landing spots, capable of accommodating a variety of rotary-wing aircraft, including the EH101 Merlin, NH90, and AW129 Mangusta. It is also designed to support the operation of F-35B Lightning II short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) fighter jets, further enhancing its versatility.
2. **Amphibious Operations**: The *Trieste* is equipped with a well deck that can house landing craft, amphibious vehicles, and other equipment necessary for beach landings. This capability enables the ship to project power ashore and support humanitarian missions in remote or disaster-stricken areas.
3. **Medical Facilities**: The ship features a fully equipped hospital with operating rooms, intensive care units, and a dental clinic. This makes it an invaluable asset for providing medical assistance during humanitarian missions or in the aftermath of natural disasters.
4. **Advanced Technology**: The *Trieste* is outfitted with cutting-edge sensors, communication systems, and self-defense weaponry, including surface-to-air missiles and close-in weapon systems (CIWS). These systems ensure the
