These ships were significantly larger than other contemporary Italian destroyers and were initially classed as esploratori or scouts.

The main armament was a new model 120-millimeter (4.7 in)/50 gun[1] in three twin turrets which allowed for 45° elevation.

Trials were run light and with overloaded machinery leading to speeds of up to 43.5 knots (80.6 km/h; 50.1 mph) which were not achievable under service conditions.

The ships were fast, but were found to lack stability and were rebuilt with clipper bows, increased beam and reduced superstructure in the late 1930s.

During the war the torpedoes were replaced by triple 21-inch tubes and extra anti-aircraft guns were added.