Fincantieri to Build Fourth U212NFS Submarine for Italian Navy.

On June 28, 2024, the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation  (OCCAR) exercised an option for the construction of a fourth next-generation submarine under the U212NFS program for the Italian Navy. This project, assigned to Fincantieri, includes integrated logistic support and in-service support, totaling €500 million. The contract was signed at the Muggiano shipyard, where the commencement of work on the third Near Future Submarine (NFS) for the Italian Navy was also celebrated with a steel-cutting ceremony. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The U212 NFS submarines, approximately 59 meters in length with a crew of about 29 members, will undertake a range of tasks from military missions to operations ensuring the security of energy supply routes and maritime infrastructure. (Picture source: OCCAR)

The U212NFS submarines represent a significant technological advancement, with major design modifications independently developed by Fincantieri, which acts as both design authority and prime contractor. These submarines are designed to enhance underwater spatial surveillance and control capabilities, addressing increasingly complex scenarios for future underwater operations. The necessity for this upgrade is also driven by the approaching end of the operational life of the four Sauro-class submarines currently in service.

A major engineering change proposal is underway to industrialize and integrate an innovative lithium energy storage system on all U212NFS vessels, replacing traditional lead-acid batteries. This new technology is expected to significantly increase the submarines' underwater range, reflecting Fincantieri's commitment to state-of-the-art underwater propulsion systems.

The production and acquisition of the U212 NFS submarines began in the early 2020s, with the first submarines expected to enter service by the mid-2020s. The program encompasses the development, production, and in-service support of four submarines, including an optional unit. These submarines will incorporate advanced technologies such as a new generation combat system with a command management system developed by Leonardo, electric hoistable masts, lithium-ion batteries, and the capability to deploy long-range deep strike cruise missiles and Black Shark Advanced torpedoes.

The U212 NFS submarines, approximately 59 meters in length with a crew of about 29 members, will undertake a range of tasks from military missions to operations ensuring the security of energy supply routes and maritime infrastructure. These submarines will join the existing U212A class to bolster Italy's naval capabilities, leveraging strategic industrial know-how and advanced technological components developed by Italian industries, research and development, and academia.