Seafuture 2023: Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi on display.

At the 2023 Seafuture exhibition, the Italian Navy took advantage of the event to display the aircraft carrier, Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The Giuseppe Garibaldi is a prominent ASW aircraft carrier in the Italian Navy. It possesses a standard displacement of 10,100 tons, swelling to 13,850 tons under full load and reaching 14,150 tons after a 2003 Major Life Update (MLU). The carrier stretches to 180.2 meters in length with a beam of 33.4 meters and a draught of 8.2 meters.

This imposing vessel's propulsion stems from four General Electric/Avio LM2500 gas turbines producing 60,400 kW of power, supplemented by six diesel engine generators from Grandi Motori Trieste, each boasting an Ansaldo-Elettrital electric generator. This setup enables the Garibaldi to achieve a maximum speed exceeding 30 knots.

With an impressive operational range of 7,000 nautical miles at 20 knots, the carrier also hosts a complement of 830 personnel, including 550 crew members, up to 180 Fleet Air Arm personnel, and a contingent of up to 100 C4 staff.

This aircraft carrier is equipped with an array of advanced sensors and processing systems, including Selenia and Hughes radar systems for long-range detection, early warning, and surface search. Furthermore, it has Raytheon hull sonar and electronic warfare capabilities, including a jamming system and decoy launchers.

The armament consists of Sea Sparrow/Aspide SAMs, Oto Melara DARDO, and triple torpedo tubes. It previously housed Otomat Mk 2 SSMs until their removal in 2003.

In terms of aircraft, the Giuseppe Garibaldi can carry up to 18 units, including AV-8B Harrier II fighter/bombers and Augusta SH-3D or AgustaWestland AW101 helicopters for ASW, ASH, and AEW roles. Lastly, the carrier's flight deck measures 174.0 meters in length and 30.0 meters in width, offering ample space for aircraft operations.