Largest Order in WASS’s 150-Year History.
Wass’ submarine contract signing ceremony.
Fincantieri, through its subsidiary WASS Submarine Systems, has secured a landmark contract from the Ministry of Defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the supply of MU90 light torpedoes. Valued at more than €200 million, the agreement marks the largest order in the 150-year history of WASS and sets a new record for acquisitions, following a major contract recently signed with the Indian Navy.
WASS is a global leader in the design and development of advanced underwater defense systems and plays a central role in Fincantieri’s defense portfolio.
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Contract Signed at World Defence Show 2026
The contract was formally announced during the World Defence Show 2026 in Riyadh. The agreement was signed by Andrea Adorni, CEO of WASS, and His Excellency Ibrahim bin Ahmed Al-Suwayed, Deputy Minister for Armaments and Procurement of the Saudi Ministry of Defense.
The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Khalid Bin Hussien AlBayari, Assistant Minister of Defense for Executive Affairs, and Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and General Manager of Fincantieri, underscoring the strategic importance of the deal for both parties.
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Program Management and Delivery Timeline
The program will be managed at WASS’s Livorno facility in Italy, recognized as a center of excellence for underwater systems. Deliveries of the MU90 torpedoes are scheduled between 2029 and 2030.
In addition to the supply of torpedoes, the contract includes a comprehensive logistics support service package for the Royal Saudi Naval Force, ensuring operational readiness and long-term sustainment.
MU90: Advanced Third-Generation Light Torpedo
The MU90 is a third-generation light weight torpedo (LWT) already in service with the Italian Navy and more than ten international naval forces. Designed with state-of-the-art technology, it is engineered to meet diverse operational requirements across various environments and scenarios.
Primarily developed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) missions, the MU90 can be deployed from a broad range of platforms, including surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft, and helicopters. It is widely regarded as one of the leading products in the underwater defense sector.
Strategic Expansion in Saudi Arabia
This agreement represents the first direct contract signed by WASS with the Saudi Ministry of Defense, further strengthening Fincantieri’s position in a strategic market. It also paves the way for future commercial and industrial synergies in the Kingdom.
The milestone follows the establishment of Fincantieri Arabia for Naval Services in Riyadh in 2024, reinforcing the Group’s long-term regional commitment. Fincantieri is also collaborating with major Saudi institutions, including the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), supporting the Kingdom’s maritime and industrial development goals.
Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Fincantieri, described the contract as a particularly significant achievement for WASS and the wider Group. He emphasized that the agreement confirms the technological excellence and reliability of Fincantieri’s underwater systems, as well as its ability to act as a trusted partner in complex and strategic defense programs.
Folgiero added that the deal strengthens Fincantieri’s industrial presence in Saudi Arabia, a key market for the Group, and demonstrates its long-term commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s future naval capabilities through advanced solutions, industrial cooperation, and a structured local presence with an integrated end-to-end approach.
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