Bernees was originally constructed as the Carlo Bergamini-class Emilio Bianchi before being acquired by Egypt and being renamed.

On 15 April 2015, the Italian Parliament confirmed the deal between OCCAR and Orizzonte Sistemi Navali Spa (Fincantieri and Finmeccanica, since 2017 Leonardo) to begin building units 9 and 10, for 764 million Euros.

In 2020 it was reported that Italy would sell its last two FREMM-class frigates in the current production line (Spartaco Schergat and Emilio Bianchi) to Egypt.

Spartaco Schergat was in the final stage of her sea trials while Emilio Bianchi would follow within one year.

[5] On 25 January 2020, the launching ceremony of the ship took place at the Fincantieri plants in Riva Trigoso.