Ulster have signed Italian lock Carlo Del Fava on a two-year contract.
Del Fava joins Ulster from Bourgoin, where he has played since the start of the 2005-06 season having previously played with Parma and Natal Sharks.
Del Fava, who was born in South Africa to an Italian father, made his debut for Italy in the final game of the 2004 Six Nations against Wales in Cardiff.
Ulster coach Mark McCall said: 'We are delighted to be signing Carlo. He is an experienced international player as well as a talented and physical lock.
'At only 25 years of age he is a dynamic prospect within the Ulster squad and will provide some extra competition for selection within the second row.'
