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MM Folgore P490 (1965)
The “Folgore P 490” gunboat is the product of modernizations carried out on the experimental “MC 490” gunboat in the years from 1962 to 1963. In fact, during the first navigation tests, the latter had shown some trim problems that prevented it from reaching maximum speed. It was then decided to subject the unit to major modification works that were carried out in the Taranto arsenal, where it emerged completely modified. The modernization works involved the bow area of the hull which was entirely rebuilt and lengthened, the stern was also modified, the three engines were replaced with four Daimler MB 518 diesel engines of 3000 hp each, bringing the total power from 9000 hp to 12000 hp. Due to the increased length (43.2 m) and the greater power available, the maximum speed reached 38 knots and the nautical characteristics were significantly improved. The armament was also modernized with two Breda-Bofors 40/70mm guns in place of the two 40/56mm, the rail guides were modified to allow the embarkation of fourteen mines, while the four torpedo launchers were maintained. Some operational problems remained due to the displacement and the size of the deck, in fact the motor gunboat and motor torpedo boat configuration did not contemplate the embarkation of mines, while in the motor gunboat and minelayer configuration the torpedoes were not embarked. On 1 September 1965, retaining the optical distinctive (P) 490, the motor gunboat took the name of “Folgore”, the unit carried out another ten years of service engaged in training activities, on 1 October 1976 it was decommissioned and finally demolished.
Specifications:
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Crew: Officers, Second Chiefs, Sergeants and Seamen: 38
Displacement Full load: 198 tons
Dimensions:
Length: 43,20m
Width: 6,00m
Full Load Draft: 2,10m
Engine System:
4 Daimler MB 518 Diesel engines
4 Propellers
Power: 12000 hp / 8826 kW
Speed: 38 knots (70 km/h)
Autonomy: 629 NM (1165 km) at 34 knots (63 km/h) - 1186 NM (2197 km) at 20 knots (37 km/h)
Armament:
Torpedo boat version: 2 x 40/70 mm Breda-Bofors Gun (2 singles systems), 2 x 450mm Torpedo Tubes, 2 x 450mm Side-Firing Torpedo Launchers
Fast minelayer version: 2 x 40/70 mm Breda-Bofors Gun (2 singles systems), 14 Deep Mines
Electronic equipments:
1 x Naval Navigation and Discovery RADAR
Photos:
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Sources:
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(https://www.marina.difesa.it/noi-siamo-la-marina/pilastro-operativo/mezzi/mezzi-storici/Pagine/mas/ms_490_folgore.aspx)
SI VIS PACEM, PARA BELLUM: MARINA MILITARE ITALIANA: La motocannoniera Folgore P 490
Book: Ufficio Storico della Marina Militare: Unità veloci costiere Italiane - Erminio Bagnasco