Italy Secures Final U-212 NFS Submarine Under €500 Million Deal, Boosting Mediterranean Patrol Fleet

Rome, Italy: Italy has finalized a €500 million ($535 million) deal to acquire its fourth and final U-212 Near Future Submarine (NFS), marking a significant milestone in the modernization of its naval capabilities. The state-controlled Italian shipyard Fincantieri will build the submarine, which is part of a strategic initiative to maintain a robust and technologically advanced submarine fleet.  

The new NFS vessels are set to complement Italy’s existing four U-212 submarines and will replace the ageing Sauro-class subs slated for retirement. This acquisition will ensure Italy's submarine fleet remains at a total of eight vessels, a number deemed necessary by navy planners to effectively patrol the increasingly congested Mediterranean waters.  

Managed by the European-based contracting agency OCCAR, the deal includes logistic support for the new submarine. Fincantieri has scheduled the launch of the first and second NFS subs for 2027 and 2028, respectively. Construction on the third submarine commenced this week at the Muggiano yard in Italy.  

Technological Advancements and Collaboration  

The initial four U-212 submarines were constructed using German technology through a partnership with Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. However, the new U-212 NFS platforms will feature a blend of German and Italian technology, with Fincantieri assuming the design authority role.

Key technological upgrades for the new submarines include the installation of lithium batteries, which will replace the traditional lead-acid batteries and extend the operational range. Additionally, Italian planners have introduced a Fluoropolymer coating for the hulls to reduce encrustation and drag. The hydrodynamics of the vessels have also been enhanced by redesigning the bow, improving overall performance compared to the original U-212 model.  

The U-212 NFS Programme: Ambitious and Innovative  

The U-212 NFS Programme represents Italy’s most ambitious and innovative submarine project to date. Italy chose OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d'Armement / Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation) to manage the programme, leveraging OCCAR's 20 years of expertise in program management and defence capabilities.  

OCCAR's role ensures that the programme adheres to the most advanced criteria in System Engineering, Through Life Management, Risk Management, and Quality. This management approach not only enhances the programme’s potential for future international cooperation but also boosts the visibility and credibility of its industrial participants on the global stage.  

The U-212 NFS Programme is critical for Italy’s underwater spatial surveillance and control capacity, preparing the nation for future complex underwater operations. These submarines will undertake a variety of tasks, ranging from military missions to ensuring freedom of navigation and anti-piracy operations. They will play a crucial role in maintaining the security of energy supply routes, which are vital due to seabed resources and underwater infrastructure.   

Additionally, the submarines will support Italy’s commitments to international law, combat terrorism, defend external borders, and protect essential maritime infrastructure, including offshore and underwater installations. The U-212 NFS submarines will also respond to requests from the Italian Government and NATO and EU allies, reinforcing Italy’s role in international security and cooperation.