The European intergovernmental organization Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has signed a contract amendment to upgrade the first batch of U212A Todaro-class submarines of the Italian Navy under the Near Future Submarine (NFS) program.
The upgrade is based on a mid-life update study that identifies systems and equipment in need of modernization, building on advancements incorporated into the newer NFS vessels.
The effort will bridge the technological gap between the two generations of submarines, ensuring cost efficiency through shared logistical support.
“The [Engineering Change Proposal] aims to identify the best technological solutions to install on the U212 A class submarines,” an OCCAR press release stated.
“Although these boats are still among the most advanced in the world, nearly twenty years have passed since their delivery, and they have accumulated tens of thousands of operating hours. As a result, they now need important upgrades and solutions to replace outdated equipment.”
Other Nations Can Also Benefit
Other nations operating submarines with the same core design can also benefit from the study.
The German Navy operates the 212A class, while the Royal Norwegian Navy has ordered four submarines based on the design.
The first Todaro-class vessel was commissioned into the Italian Navy in 2006, followed by the second in 2007.
A total of four U212A boats are operational with the service, with the last commissioned in 2017.
Near Future Submarine
The NFS program seeks to replace the Sauro-class of submarines, four of which remain active while four have been decommissioned.
The first Sauro submarine was commissioned in 1979.
The NFS program includes four U212 NFS and two U212 NFS Evo submarines, with the first set to be commissioned in 2027 and the last in 2036.
These new submarines will feature advanced capabilities for underwater operations, surveillance, and control missions.