The Italian Navy’s guided missile destroyer ITS Caio Duilio (D554) has arrived in Poland (port of Gdynia, northern Poland) on Saturday, as announced by Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak on Twitter.
Minister Blaszczak explained that the Caio Duilio is equipped with powerful anti-aircraft and anti-missile armaments, which will enhance the defense of the Polish coast and safeguard critical national infrastructures. He further stated that the arrival of the Italian ship is the outcome of his discussions with Guido Crosetto, the Italian defense minister.
“The Italians will bolster our anti-aircraft defense for a minimum of six months” added Blaszczak.
The Caio Duilio is equipped with a PAAMS (Principal Anti Air Missile System) missile system featuring 48 vertical launchers capable of deploying Aster 15 and Aster 30 anti-aircraft missiles. The combat range of these missiles extends from 30 to 120 kilometers. Additionally, the ship is outfitted with eight Otomat anti-ship missile launchers, as well as 25mm and 76mm cannons, and torpedo launchers.
The hangar and flight deck of the Caio Duilio are designed to accommodate SH90 and EH101 helicopters. The ship reaches a speed of 29 knots (approximately 54 km/h). The vessel’s crew number is 230.
