Italy Signs New U212 NFS Submarine Contract Amendment to Strengthen Strategic Undersea Capabilities.

On 25 June 2025, OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) officially announced the signing of Amendment No. 7 to the U212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) contract between Programme Manager Decio Trinca and Fincantieri Vice-President Dario Oliveri. This update comes as Italy continues to expand and modernise its undersea fleet, which includes the fourth U212 NFS submarine that had already been highlighted in a previous article by Army Recognition in July 2024. That earlier report detailed the €500 million option to build the fourth unit, marking a significant milestone for the programme.
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By investing in upgraded sensors, modern energy storage and special operations potential, the Italian Navy aims to strengthen its position as a capable and flexible force able to meet the demands of an increasingly complex maritime security environment (Picture source: OCCAR) 

The latest amendment focuses on improving key aspects of the submarines’ capabilities. Technical enhancements include upgrades to the periscope systems, with improved optics and sensors designed to boost situational awareness. The amendment also provides for a feasibility study to convert one of the platforms into a Special Operations Submarine, which would serve as a testbed for advanced technologies within the NFS framework. Alongside these features, minor engineering changes have been introduced to optimise the integration of onboard systems and ensure better performance.

This continued development is strategically significant for Italy’s naval power. The U212 NFS programme represents a major step in replacing the ageing Sauro-class submarines and ensuring the Italian Navy maintains a credible underwater deterrent. The adoption of lithium-ion batteries, confirmed when the fourth submarine contract was exercised, reflects a technological leap expected to extend submerged endurance and operational reach. The switch from lead-acid to lithium-ion energy storage aligns Italy with other leading navies adopting similar solutions for enhanced stealth and sustainability underwater.

The geopolitical implications of the U212 NFS programme are closely tied to Italy’s role within NATO and the broader security architecture of the Mediterranean and surrounding maritime routes. By strengthening its submarine fleet, Italy signals its commitment to safeguarding key sea lines of communication, protecting critical energy infrastructure, and ensuring a flexible response to crises in the region. This capability also contributes to collective European defence, complementing similar investments by partner nations.

From a geostrategic perspective, the ongoing upgrades and fleet expansion reflect a deliberate policy to counter growing challenges in the undersea domain. As other regional actors modernise their naval assets, the U212 NFS stands as a key element in preserving freedom of navigation and intelligence gathering. The inclusion of a Special Operations variant could further enhance Italy’s capacity to conduct covert missions and support multinational operations.

Taken together, the signing of Amendment No. 7 and the progression of the construction phase for the fourth submarine confirm Italy’s determination to maintain advanced undersea capabilities. By investing in upgraded sensors, modern energy storage and special operations potential, the Italian Navy aims to strengthen its position as a capable and flexible force able to meet the demands of an increasingly complex maritime security environment.