The U212 NFS new Battery System (Lithium based) successfully completed its System Design Review (SDR). This milestone marks a mandatory step forward in the development, possible production and integration on board of the U212 NFS fleet.
SDR core objectives were safety and the increase of the operating capacity of the Lithium Battery System.
Next significant step will be the Critical Design Review that completes the design of this innovative as well as strategic energy storage system in line with the Italian Navy operational requirements.
The SDR was achieved through a joint effort by all stakeholders such as the OCCAR U212 NFS Programme Division, Submarine experts of the Italian Navy and the whole small and medium-sized enterprises led by Fincantieri.
The Programme is the result of industrial, university and R&D work and can be characterised as a game-changer in the UW sector. It has capitalised on the experiences of the current U212A and has exploited the cutting edge technology of the mechanical, energy and sensor, structures and projects sectors.
The U212 NFS will also include a new generation combat system with Leonardo-developed command management system and weapon control, both including significant industrial and technological content provided by Italian industry, R&D and academia.
The new platform will have an extended pressure hull, CIC re-designed for additional consoles, tropicalisation (operability in seawater with tropical temperatures), electric hoistable masts instead of hydraulic ones, new engineering control monitoring system and lithium ion batteries for propulsion system.
Moreover, U212 NFS will be fitted for the deployment of long-range deep strike cruise missiles and Leonardo national Black Shark Advanced heavyweight torpedoes. These innovative systems will also be tailored with a view to retrofitting previous units.
The Programme also aims to uphold and further develop strategic and innovative industrial know-how, as well as consolidating technology and enhancing the presence of technologically-advanced component parts.
The 1st Tranche of the U212 NFS programme includes two boats, new technology developments, 10-year in-service support and new training devices. The contract will also include the option for another two pair of boats and long-term in-service support and future technologies potentially including a new Fuel Cell system.
Delivery schedule
| U212 NFS NR.1 | 12/2027 |
| U212 NFS NR.2 | 01/2029 |
| U212 NFS NR.3 | 05/2030 (optional) |
| U212 NFS NR.4 | 06/2031 (optional) |