**OVERVIEW:** The S 524 *Primo Longobardo* is a *Salvatore Pelosi*-class submarine in service with the Italian Navy. These diesel-electric submarines represent a vital component of Italy’s undersea warfare capabilities.

**DETAILS:**
The *Salvatore Pelosi* class of submarines emerged from Italy's shipbuilding program aimed at replacing its aging *Enrico Toti*-class vessels. The design emphasizes improved acoustic stealth, increased operational range, and enhanced combat capabilities compared to its predecessors. The *Primo Longobardo*, commissioned in 2000, benefits from advancements in noise reduction technologies, including a resiliently mounted machinery raft and optimized hull design. These features contribute to a lower acoustic signature, making the submarine more difficult to detect and track. The design also incorporates improved automation, reducing the crew size required for operation while maintaining high operational efficiency. The class reflects Italy’s commitment to maintaining a modern and capable submarine force.

The *Primo Longobardo* primarily functions in the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) roles, providing a significant deterrent and defensive capability. The submarine is capable of conducting independent patrols in the Mediterranean Sea and potentially further afield, supporting national interests and alliance commitments. The vessel can also be tasked with intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, utilizing its advanced sensor suite to monitor maritime activity and gather critical information. The *Primo Longobardo*'s low acoustic signature enables it to operate covertly in contested waters, providing a significant advantage in these types of operations.

The *Primo Longobardo* is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors designed to enhance its situational awareness and combat effectiveness. The IPD-70/S sonar suite, including both MF and LF variants, provides a robust capability for detecting and tracking underwater targets at varying ranges. The MM/BPS-704 radar system, utilizing the 3RM-20 SMG search radar, allows for surface search and navigation, enabling the submarine to operate safely in congested waters. The MM/BLD-727 Thetis towed array enhances the submarine’s long-range detection capabilities. The inclusion of both conventional optical periscopes and LLTV periscopes provides the crew with visual observation capabilities in both day and low-light conditions. The IN 100A LF and ISO 100 HF communication systems ensure effective communication with shore-based command centers and other naval assets.

**SPECIFICATION:** Length: 66.0 m || Beam: 6.8 m || Draft: 6.3 m || Disp: 1653 t

**SENSORS:** IPD-70/S MF || MD-100/S || MM/BPS-704 [3RM-20 SMG] || MM/BLD-727 Thetis || IPD-70/S LF || IN 100A LF || ISO 100 HF || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

**ARMAMENT:** 533mm TT