Amendment No. 6 to the U212 NFS contract was signed 27 March 202 in Rome, the last act signed by the outgoing U212 NFS Program Manager Rear Admiral Maurizio Cannarozzo.
This Amendment adds a new Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) focused on a study for the first batch of U212A Todaro-Class submarines, to determine which systems need to be upgraded using the latest technology developed for the Near Future Submarine (NFS) Program.
The ECP aims to identify the best technological solutions to install on the U212A class submarines. 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 As a result, they now need important upgrades and solutions to replace outdated equipment.
Through the Mid-Life Update (MLU) study, OCCAR-EA will pinpoint all systems and equipment that require modern technology, building on what has already been developed and used on the newer NFS units. This will bridge the gap between the two generations of submarines, ensure access to cutting-edge solutions, and allow for a shared logistical support system—bringing clear benefits in terms of cost and efficiency for the Armed Forces.
This MLU sets the stage for beneficial partnerships with other Nations that operate submarines with the same core design, creating more opportunities for joint development and support.