Final NFS submarine for Italian Navy’s U212 NFS programme to be built
The latest design for the U212 NFS programme features a lithium battery energy storage system. (Image Fincantieri)
The building of a fourth new-generation submarine for the Italian Navy has been announced by contractor Fincantieri. The unit, which has a value of €500 million ($535.6 million), will form the final part of the U212 NFS (Near Future Submarine) programme.
The announcement was made after the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) exercised an option for the building work, assigned to Fincantieri, to commence.
The signing took place at Muggiano shipyard where work on the third NFS submarine for the Italian Navy has also got underway following a steel-cutting ceremony.
The new submarine will include integrated logistic support and in-service support, with the deal activating all other options for maintenance support for the submarines already contracted.
According to Fincantieri, the project will see the integration of a lithium battery energy storage system, which will replace the traditional lead-based system and will feature design advancements that “fulfil the Italian Navy’s surveillance and control needs”.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri, said: “This project contributes to expanding our presence in the underwater sphere, a strategic area where the major challenges of the geopolitical balances and technological innovation of the future will play out.”
According to Shephard Defence Insight, $1.6 billion worth of funding for the U212 NFS programme was made available for the first two NFS after Italy signed a contract for the first pair in February 2021, with an option included for two more boats from Fincantieri.
As reported by Shephard, the steel for the second sub in the class was cut in June 2023, as the Italian Navy continued to replace its four ageing Sauro-class vessels.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
U-212 Near Future Submarine (4) [Italy]
U-212 Near Future Submarine (3) [Italy]
U-212 Near Future Submarine (1-2) [Italy]
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
UK reinforces relations with Nordic neighbours amid potential warship deals with Denmark and Sweden
Hot on the heels of Norway selecting BAE Systems to build five Type 26 anti-submarine frigates, the UK government is reportedly in ‘advanced talks’ on new warship orders for two more Scandinavian countries.
-
Royal New Zealand Navy outlines modernisation goals
The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has a crunch time coming up as it looks to refresh its fleet before 2040, and prepares to begin operating Sikorsky MH-60R helicopters, although it is at the back of a long ordering queue. A key part of any solution is looking at what neighbouring Australia is buying.
-
US Coast Guard awards contracts for the construction of up to 150 aids to navigation vessels
Agreements with Inventech Marine Solutions and North River Boats cover the acquisition of trailerable aids to navigation boats and cutter boats - aids to navigation – small.