Parliamentary approval has been granted for the construction of the third new-generation submarine as part of the U212NFS (Near Future Submarine) program for the Italian Navy, with the contract assigned to Fincantieri.
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Artist rendering of the Near Future Submarine. (Picture source: OCCAR)
Fincantieri was contracted for two vessels in 2021 under this program, which also includes the establishment of a Training Center. The initiative is guided by OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement, the international organization for joint armament cooperation).
The first two vessels are slated for delivery in 2027 and 2029, with the steel cutting for the second unit scheduled for June 6th.
The U212NFS submarines, designed by Fincantieri to meet the Navy's specific requirements, will incorporate significant innovative features. The program aims to ensure proper underwater surveillance and control capacity in light of anticipated complex underwater operations scenarios.
It also addresses the nearing end of the operational life of the four "Sauro" class submarines currently in service. The program is designed to maintain and advance Fincantieri's strategic and innovative industrial expertise, reinforce the company's technological lead and the supply chain, and bolster the presence of technologically advanced components developed by Italian industries on board.
About the U212NFS
Spanning an approximate length of 59 meters, standing around 12 meters tall above the sail, and with a maximum diameter of close to 7 meters, the submarine exemplifies modern naval design. Her estimated surface displacement is about 1600 tons, designed to comfortably house a crew of approximately 29 members.
