TRIESTE – Fincantieri has filed a lawsuit in the United States against Owens Corning and its Finnish subsidiary Paroc, accusing them of supplying irregularly certified insulation panels that fail to meet European fire safety standards.
The suit, filed in Ohio, claims over $100 million in damages suffered by the Italian shipbuilding group, including delivery delays, contractual penalties and reputational harm. According to the Financial Times, the rock wool panels supplied by Paroc were installed on around ten Fincantieri-built ships, including luxury cruise vessels such as Explora I and II, as well as several military ships.
The issue emerged in 2023 after independent tests conducted by Danish maritime authorities revealed a fire resistance of 45 minutes – below the 60 minutes required by EU regulations. Fincantieri alleges that certifications were obtained using manipulated samples specifically prepared to pass tests, which differed from the actual materials delivered to the market.
The loss of approval also affected more than 40 vessels built in previous years for other international operators, already in service.
The incident has had a direct impact on delivery schedules: the launch of Explora I, initially planned for 29 June 2023, was delayed by three weeks. Explora II and a third vessel also experienced delays, generating additional costs for the shipbuilder.
In the lawsuit, Fincantieri claims that Owens Corning failed to implement corrective measures for vessels already in operation, despite an internal review indicating “a high level of onboard safety risk.” Owens Corning confirmed it is aware of the legal action but declined to comment on ongoing proceedings.
