The Italian shipyard Fincantieri has begun work on a new aircraft carrier for the Italian Navy. To be named Andrea Doria, the ship will be 235 meters long and will displace 22,500 tons. It will carry 1250 personnel (including 450 amphibious troops). Andrea Doria will carry EH-101 helicopters and Harrier fighters; Joint Strike Fighters may be purchased eventually. The ship will be commissioned in 2007 and will be fully operational in 2008.--Stephen V Cole