Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 4:58:14-4:59:16

Why Italy is unlikely to replace Cavour with a CVN

An Italian nuclear carrier would require a larger supporting capability, while a future conventional design would depend partly on F-35B experience.

Aircraft CarriersCarrier GroupsCavourF-35BItalian NavyNuclear Powered Aircraft CarriersItalian Amphibious Assault Ship Trieste (L9890)
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Question

Will Italy eventually build a nuclear carrier to replace Cavour?

Short answer

The forecast favours a conventional successor drawing on Trieste; carrier size and aircraft arrangements would depend on future fleet choices and F-35B experience.

Notes

A nuclear-powered successor to Cavour is considered unlikely because it would require substantial additional fleet and task-group skills. A larger conventionally powered carrier remains conceivable in this forecast. The possible successor is imagined at a scale approaching Queen Elizabeth and drawing on the Trieste design. Satisfaction with the F-35B would influence whether Italy retained short-take-off and vertical-landing operations or considered catapults and arresting gear. These are possible future choices discussed in the episode, rather than an announced replacement programme.