TSAMTO, July 2. The European Organization for Cooperation in the Field of Armaments (OCCAR) has implemented an option to build a fourth submarine for the Italian Navy under the U212NFS (Near Future Submarine) program.
According to the Italian company Fincantieri, the total cost of the order is about 500 million euros ($535 million), including related integrated logistics and operational support. Other options have also been implemented to support the maintenance of previously contracted submarines.
Simultaneously with the signing of the agreement on the construction of the fourth nuclear submarine, the Muggiano Shipyard (La Spezia) hosted the cutting ceremony of the first steel for the third U212NFS submarine for the Italian Navy.
At the same time, the implementation of a proposal for engineering changes in the construction of NAPS in Italy has been initiated, including the production and integration of an innovative lithium energy storage system (lithium battery system) on board all U212NFS NAPS, which will replace the traditional lead-acid batteries currently in use.
As stated, the U212NFS submarines will feature an innovative and largely modified design developed by Fincantieri, which serves as the designer and general contractor. The project was implemented taking into account the need to expand the capabilities of monitoring and controlling the underwater situation and the expiring service life of four armed submarines of the Impruvd Sauro class. The U212NFS submarines will join four U212A class submarines in service, including (S529) Romeo Romei, which is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance at the Mugiano shipyard. Thus, thanks to the new purchases, the total number of the Italian submarine fleet will remain at the level of eight ships.
As noted, the construction of the U212NFS class NPS will ensure the support and further development of the know-how obtained by Fincantieri, as well as preserve the technological leadership achieved by the company and its suppliers, including both large manufacturers and small and medium-sized enterprises.
As reported by CAMTO, on February 26, 2021, OCCAR signed a contract with Fincantieri for the construction of two U212NFS submarines for the Italian Navy.
NAPS can be used to perform a wide range of tasks in the interests of Italy, NATO and the EU, including ensuring freedom of navigation, combating piracy and terrorism, ensuring the security of energy supply routes and communication infrastructure, compliance with international law, protection of sea routes, external borders and marine infrastructure facilities, etc.
The cost of the agreement, including the accompanying 10-year logistical support and the supply of new simulators, amounted to 1.35 billion. euros ($1.63 million). The contract included an option to build two additional U212NFS class submarines. The new NAPS will replace four Impruvd Sauro class submarines, whose service life is about to expire.
The U212NFS is a further development of the Salvatore Todaro class submarines. The submarines will be equipped with a new generation combat control system developed by Leonardo, an updated air-independent power plant with Italian-made lithium-ion fuel cells, which will make them one of the most inconspicuous submarines in the world.
It is assumed that the NPL of the improved project will be distinguished by an elongated 1.2 m hull, as well as a number of other new technologies introduced to increase fuel reserves. The new platform will receive a non-magnetic amanox body with a fluoroplastic coating, will be equipped with an updated set of combat systems, a combat information center of a new configuration, updated GAS, modern torpedoes and missiles. Submarines will be able to use unmanned underwater vehicles.
The construction of the lead submarine of the series began at the enterprise in Mugiano (La Spezia) in January 2022. The cutting of the first steel for the second NPL took place in June 2023. They are expected to be launched in 2027 and 2028.
In May 2023, the Italian Parliament approved the construction of the third U212NFS nuclear power plant. It is expected to be delivered to the customer at the end of 2030.
