Italian ship Etna (A5326)

Etna (A 5326) is an auxiliary ship currently in operation with the Italian Navy.

History
Etna was ordered in July 1995, and was built by Fincantieri at the Riva Trigoso Naval Shipyard. She was launched in July 1997, and underwent sea trials during November before delivery to the Italian Navy in February 1998.

In March 2011, Etna was deployed to the coast of Libya as part of Operation Unified Protector, a NATO operation to enforce an arms embargo on Libya.

Purpose
Etna is designed as a support ship able to supply a larger squadron at sea. As such, she has the capability to refuel ships, produce fresh water, and carry cargo. She has a cargo capacity of up to 10,100 tons of diesel fuel, 1,200 tons of aviation fuel for aircraft on aircraft carriers, 160 tons of fresh water, and up to twelve containers of solid goods.

Specifications
Etna has a length between perpendiculars of 138.8 m, and an overall length of 146 m. Her beam is 21 m, and she draws 7.5 m. She is powered by two Sulzer diesel engines, which drive two propellers through reduction gearing. This system gives Etna a speed of 21 kn, though she has the greatest range (7,600 nmi) at a speed of 18 kn.

Armament
Etna is equipped with minimal armament, which includes a close-in weapon system and an Otobreda 76 mm main gun. These are controlled by a Selex fire control system and an electronic warfare support measures system. The ship is also equipped with an Alenia Marconi Systems radar, a Selex command system and an Elmer MAC communications system.