The “Astice” (literally: European lobster) was launched in 1957 as a
non-magnetic in-shore Minesweeper, which means that her hull is mostly made of wood. She is part of a series of vessels called “classe Aragosta” (Lobster class) whose design is inspired by a similarly edible type of British minesweepers: the Ham class.
In the early 2000's the “Astice” underwent a thorough modernization and is now used as a navigational and maneuvering training vessel for the cadets of the Naval Academy.
External links:
Astice (Italian Navy)
Very interesting. Great images. :)
ReplyDeleteA boat with purpose!
ReplyDeleteIt's a beautiful boat, I like a lot your first image and the fortress background!
ReplyDeletehugs
Léia
Very interesting. Before I finished reading, I was wondering about minesweeping...
ReplyDeleteI have a soft spot for this boat: I was 'launched' in the same year.
ReplyDeleteMy 'modernization' is still in progress...
So you are twins with the "Astice"?
ReplyDeleteNice to see the tower in back of her.
Lobster and ham, not kosher, so I wouldn't want to eat the boats but I sure enjoy the pictures and your facts.
Nice write-up and photos.
ReplyDeleteLove the top shot. What a great contrast to the wonderful background.
ReplyDelete