Giuseppe Garibaldi Aircraft Carrier

Full Specifications

Giuseppe Garibaldi Light Aircraft Carrier

The Giuseppe Garibaldi aircraft carrier served for decades as the flagship of the Italian Navy and marked a major step in Italy’s post Cold War naval aviation strategy. Commissioned in 1985, it was Italy’s first true aircraft carrier and one of the earliest European ships designed to operate VSTOL fighter jets.

Built by Fincantieri at the Monfalcone shipyard, the vessel was designed as a light aircraft carrier with a focus on fleet air defense, maritime security, and expeditionary operations. It primarily operated the AV-8B Harrier II before transitioning toward helicopter and amphibious support roles later in its service life.

Speed and Range

Powered by a combined gas turbine propulsion system, Giuseppe Garibaldi could reach speeds of approximately 30 knots. The ship had a range of about 7,000 nautical miles at cruising speed, enabling sustained Mediterranean and NATO deployments without frequent refueling.

Operational Role and Capabilities

With a ski jump flight deck, the carrier supported short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft. Its air wing typically included Harrier strike fighters, anti submarine warfare helicopters, and transport helicopters. The ship featured 3D air search radar, electronic warfare systems, and short range air defense systems including surface to air missiles and close in weapon systems.

Giuseppe Garibaldi participated in NATO operations in the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Libya. It served as a mobile air base, command platform, and humanitarian response hub before being replaced by the larger Cavour.

Cost

Estimated construction cost in the 1980s was roughly $1.3 to $1.5 billion in contemporary U.S. dollar terms, adjusted for inflation.