Fincantieri shipyards were awarded the contract for Etna in July 1995, and the ship was launched in July 1997. The ship was commissioned into the Italian Navy in February 1998.
Etnas main role is to fully support the long-range missions of a naval squadron, which would typically include an aircraft carrier and complete escort. Additionally it has to be in position to refuel the squadron, including the air wing of the carrier, and also provide full logistic support in terms of repair workshops, spare parts, ammunition replenishment and supplies. The ship can play a crucial role in civil protection operations when asked. The ship has high autonomous capacity to provide electrical power, fresh water and prepared meals and also has fully equipped hospital and medical facilities on board.
The construction of the Greek ship HS Prometheus[4] began in Elefsina on February 18, 2000, at the Elefsis Shipyards. It was launched on February 19, 2002, and commissioned into the Greek Navy on July 8, 2003. It is the largest ship of the Hellenic Navy (in terms of displacement). The Greek Navy does not have an aircraft carrier like the Italian Navy so the primary role of the ship is different. As the largest ship of the fleet it is used as a Command ship.
Transport Capacity:
Other facilities:
Cargo transfer system:
| Ship | Navy | Namesake | Builder | Commissioned | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etna (A 5326) | Etna | Fincantieri | July 29, 1998 | In Service | |
| HS Prometheus Προμηθέας | Prometheus | Elefsis Shipyards | July 8, 2003 | In Service | |