OCCAR U212 NFS programme reaches milestone with successful final test of Lithium-ion Battery System.

According to information published by OCCAR on December 19, 2024, the final operational test of the Lithium-ion Battery System (LBS) for the U212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) Programme was successfully conducted at the facilities of POWER4FUTURE Spa.
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A model of the U212 NFS submarine at the World Defense Show 2024. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The event was attended by prominent figures, including Mr. Joachim Sucker, OCCAR-EA Director; Vice Admiral (ret.) Matteo Bisceglia, Strategic Senior Advisor to Fincantieri’s CEO; and Rear Admiral Luigi Schinelli, Head of the 1st Department of the Italian Naval Armament Directorate.

The LBS represents the result of over a decade of collaboration among NAVARM, Fincantieri, and the Power4Future consortium, which includes FAAM and Cetena. The aim of this initiative has been to transition from traditional lead-acid batteries to a lithium-ion-based system.

The system is designed to integrate into the U212A class submarines undergoing Mid-Life Updates, providing improved energy storage capacity and adaptability to modern operational demands.

The final test involved comprehensive evaluations to validate the system’s performance, safety, and reliability. The Single String Converter (SSC) was tested in conjunction with the battery module string under conditions replicating submarine operations.

During the testing, engineers examined the system’s response to varying electrical loads during both usage and recharging phases, reaching the maximum allowable performance levels. The battery monitoring system was also tested to ensure accurate performance tracking and operational safety.

U212 NFS

The hull design is optimized for low acoustic and magnetic signatures, ensuring the vessel remains undetectable in hostile waters. Its hydrodynamic shape not only minimizes noise but also enhances maneuverability and speed, making it well-suited for various operational scenarios. The U212 NFS is equipped with a comprehensive sensor suite, including advanced sonar arrays for superior detection and tracking of underwater and surface targets, alongside modern radar and electronic support systems for situational awareness. Optronic and traditional periscopes provide versatile observation and targeting options while maintaining a low signature.

The submarine’s armament is equally advanced, featuring six 533mm torpedo tubes capable of launching heavyweight torpedoes, such as the Black Shark Advanced, as well as anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles. It can also deploy mines for area denial operations and has provisions for integrating unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs).

The upcoming U212 NFS EVO variant will take these advancements further, with increased displacement to accommodate additional payloads and technologies. It will integrate features under development for Italy’s Next Generation Submarine (NGS).