OCCAR commissions Fincantieri to build 3rd U212 NFS submarine.

According to information published by OCCAR on July 21, 2023, the international cooperative organization for joint armament, has commissioned Fincantieri to build the third next-generation submarine for the Italian Navy under the U212NFS (Near Future Submarine) program.
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A model of the Near Future Submarine at Seafuture 2023. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The project, valued at over 500 million euros, includes integrated support services, with the vessel scheduled for delivery in 2030. Further developments for the program anticipate an additional 160 million euros for extra activities or provision of specific additional capabilities required by the Navy.

These U212NFS submarines are set to feature significant design modifications, to be carried out independently by Fincantieri as the Design Authority, in line with Navy requirements.

The program is driven by the necessity to enhance underwater surveillance and control capacities, given the expected complexity of future underwater operations and the nearing end of the operational lifetime of the currently in-service “Sauro” class submarines.

The program also seeks to maintain and expand Fincantieri’s strategic and innovative industrial expertise, solidifying the technological leadership achieved by the company and its supply chain, including large industries and SMEs in the sector. This approach will lead to the integration of advanced components developed by Italian industries on board.

Submarines fulfill a wide range of functions for the community. Navy submarines consistently monitor maritime communication routes and the underwater environment, including within NATO and EU alliances.

This role is gaining prominence in view of the national interests located beneath the sea's surface, ranging from seabed resources to underwater energy and communication infrastructure.

Technical data

The U212NFS submarine, with a length of about 59 meters and height of 12 meters above the sail, displaces approximately 1,600 tons. Its diameter is around 7 meters, and it can accommodate a crew of roughly 29 members.