Final NFS submarine for Italian Navy’s U212 NFS programme to be built

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.