Italy building advanced 1,600 ton submarines to replace old vessels

Italy has commenced construction of advanced submarines to modernize its naval fleet, replacing aging vessels from the 1980s. The first keel-laying ceremony was held for the U212 Near Future Submarine (U212 NFS) at Fincantieri’s Muggiano shipyard. The initial submarine, designated NFS1 S530, began construction in 2022 and is expected to enter service by 2029, with the full four-submarine program slated for completion by 2032. These new submarines represent a significant technological leap over the previous U212A class, featuring enhanced Italian technological integration, improved stealth, endurance, operational efficiency, and cyber resilience. Key innovations include the use of lithium-ion propulsion batteries, a new-generation combat system with advanced command and weapon control, and design improvements such as an extended pressure hull and redesigned combat information center. The submarines will displace 1,600 tons, measure approximately 59 meters in length, accommodate a crew of