Auto-translated:
New Details on DDX Heavy Cruisers
10/14/2024 | PETER BATACCHI
New details are emerging about the 2 new destroyers that will join the DORIA CLASS DDGs in the Italian Navy's fleet.
The first detail concerns the displacement, which at the moment can be estimated at 14,000-14,500 t full load; a significant displacement, in fact, which has thus led us to “force” the title with the categorization “heavy cruiser”.
Another “big” innovation concerns the radar complex that Leonardo is developing based on the experience of the PPA KRONOS DBR. In particular, it is still a dual-band radar with fixed faces that, however, adds the S band to the X band (instead of the C as on the KRONOS DBR). The most interesting aspect is that the S band, in addition to early warning and detection, will also provide missile guidance, thanks to the truly significant size and power of the antenna.
This is one of the reasons that, in fact, led to the progressive “enlargement” of the DDX and that do not allow us to think of the DDX simply as larger PPAs. For the rest, 80 cells are currently confirmed, with A-70 and A-50 launchers.
However, according to RID, the new A-70 NG (Next Generation) multi-missile launcher, studies for which have already begun, could also “appear” on the ships in the future. It will be able to use RJ-10 (the supersonic anti-ship version of the FC/ASW), ASTER and the AQUILA anti-ship interceptor.
Further details in upcoming issues of RID and in Risk & Strategy WEEKLY .
(Pictured: a render of the DDX that is not “updated”).
