Italy laid the keel of the first U212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) at the Muggiano shipyard in La Spezia.
The shipyard is operated by Italian defense giant Fincantieri. The event took place on February 27, 2026. The submarine is being built for the Italian Navy as part of a larger modernization program.
The U212 NFS program was launched in 2018. It aims to replace the Navy’s aging Sauro-class diesel-electric submarines. These boats have been in service since the 1980s and are nearing the end of their operational life.
Construction of the first submarine began in 2022. The vessel will carry the hull number “NFS1 S530.” It is scheduled to enter service in 2029.
Italy plans to build a total of four U212 NFS submarines. The entire program is expected to be completed by 2032.
The project is managed by OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement). OCCAR oversees cooperative defense programs across Europe and is also responsible for managing logistic support for the new submarines.
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The U212 NFS class is a major upgrade over the earlier U212A submarines.
Fincantieri said, “The U212NFS submarine class represents a substantial evolution compared to its U212A predecessors. We have achieved greater design maturity, higher national technological content, and improved integration of onboard systems.”
The company highlighted key innovations developed by the Italian industry. These include a new lithium-ion propulsion battery and a modern combat system.
Fincantieri said, “The innovations developed by Italian industry, including the lithium-ion propulsion battery and the new combat system, will ensure greater stealth, endurance, efficiency, and cyber resilience.”
The lithium-ion battery will improve underwater endurance. It will allow the submarine to operate more quietly for longer periods. This enhances stealth and reduces the risk of detection.
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The U212 NFS will serve as a modern attack submarine. It will carry land-attack cruise missiles and torpedoes. It will also deploy unmanned underwater vehicles for advanced missions.
The submarine will be equipped with multiple sensors. It will feature upgraded communication systems and electronic warfare capabilities. An enhanced autopilot system will improve operational control and awareness.
The vessel will measure 59 meters in length and 7 meters in beam. It will have a two-level deck and accommodate more than 30 personnel.
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The propulsion system will combine a lithium-ion battery with an MTU 16V-396 diesel generator, a Permasyn electric motor, and a low-noise propeller. This will ensure efficient, silent underwater movement.
The U212 NFS program is also important for Italy’s defense industry. It strengthens national technological expertise and increases the use of locally developed components.
The Muggiano shipyard plays a key role in the project. With more than 100 submarines built over the past century, it remains a key center of Italy’s underwater naval capabilities.
Amid global underwater threats and complex maritime security challenges, the U212 NFS program will ensure Italy maintains strong surveillance and control over its maritime domain. With delivery of the first submarine set for 2029, Italy is steadily building the future of its underwater fleet.
