On March 27, the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) announced the signing of the sixth amendment to the U212 NFS contract, which includes a new proposal for studies aimed at modernizing the Italian Navy’s U212A attack submarines. In particular, the main objective of the project is to integrate the latest developments from the Near Future Submarines (NFS) program into the Todaro-class, thereby enhancing the capabilities of the German-origin design.
In this regard, it is worth noting that this class has been in service with the Marina Militare for nearly two decades and is therefore approaching its scheduled Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU). Taking advantage of this window, OCCAR will oversee in-depth studies to determine which systems and equipment need to be replaced in order to keep the platform at the forefront of naval technology. The goal is to move forward with a modernization program that brings the U212A submarines closer to the current standards of the Italian Navy.
Additionally, OCCAR stated: “This will reduce the gap between the two generations of submarines, ensure access to cutting-edge solutions, and allow for a shared logistic support system, which will bring clear advantages in terms of cost and efficiency for the Armed Forces (…) This MLU sets the stage for beneficial partnerships with other nations operating submarines with the same core design, creating more opportunities for joint development and support.”
In connection with the above, it is relevant to point out that the Italian Navy currently operates a total of four U212A submarines, with the first being commissioned in 2006 and the most recent in 2017. From a broader perspective, it should be highlighted that this type of submarine is also in service with the German Navy, which operates a fleet of six units. Furthermore, the design serves as the basis for the development of the 212CD variant, which is also set to be acquired by the Royal Norwegian Navy.
Lastly, it is important to mention that in addition to exploring modernization options for its U212A submarines, the Marina Militare is also in the process of introducing its new U212NFS submarines, in collaboration with OCCAR and the company Fincantieri. Initially composed of two U212 NFS and two U212 NFS “Evo” units, the acquisition aims to provide a replacement for the aging Sauro-class submarines, which have been in service since the 1980s. Among their key features, the new submarines acquired by Rome will include a modernized Combat Information Center (CIC) and an extended pressure hull. In terms of armament, they are expected to be capable of deploying long-range cruise missiles and Leonardo’s National Black Shark Advanced torpedoes.
Images used for illustrative purposes only.
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