Itlay's OCCAR Advances U212 Submarine with New Lithium Battery System

On 7 October 2025, the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR) announced the successful completion of the Critical Design Review (CDR) for the Lithium Battery System (LBS) of the U212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) Programme. This review confirmed that the LBS meets all design and mission requirements, allowing the programme to proceed to manufacturing, system integration, and qualification.

The U212 NFS is a collaborative programme led by OCCAR in coordination with Italy’s Ministry of Defence and Fincantieri, the prime contractor. The programme focuses on developing a class of submarines for the Italian Navy with improved stealth, endurance, and operational flexibility. The first submarine in this class is expected for delivery in early 2029. The U212 NFS will be the first Western submarine designed specifically for a lithium-based battery system, representing an advance in submarine propulsion technology.

The Lithium Battery System provides higher energy density, lower maintenance requirements, and improved safety compared with traditional lead-acid batteries. Developed entirely by Italian industry, the LBS will be produced in Italy at one of Europe’s largest gigafactories, built specifically for this purpose. The system uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, known for reliability and stability, and has undergone testing and certification to meet the required safety standards for submerged operations. Integration with the submarine’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) fuel cell system will enhance autonomy and energy efficiency.

From a contractual perspective, the programme has been supported by significant investment. In February 2021, OCCAR and Fincantieri signed the first-phase contract for the U212 NFS Programme, valued at €1.35 billion. The agreement covers the development of the submarine class, procurement of two units, construction of a training centre, and ten years of technical-logistic support. Subsequent contract amendments included upgrades such as periscope improvements and studies for a Special Operations Submarine variant. The latest amendment in July 2025 further supports the enhancement of the U212 NFS capabilities.

The CDR for the LBS was endorsed by representatives from the Naval Armament Directorate, the Italian Navy General Staff, Fincantieri, and OCCAR, confirming alignment among all stakeholders and allowing the next steps in the programme. OCCAR emphasized its role in coordinating institutional, industrial, and governmental actors to support European defence cooperation through programme management and long-term capability development. The milestone also highlights the technical expertise of Fincantieri, which is central to delivering this propulsion system for the Italian Navy.

As the programme moves forward with production and integration, the U212 Near Future Submarines will provide the Italian Navy with improved performance, endurance, and stealth, reflecting Italy’s role in defence technology and energy innovation for underwater platforms.