OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d'Armement), the International Organisation for the Cooperation of Armaments, exercised the option for the construction of the fourth new generation submarine related to the U212NFS (Near Future Submarine) of the Italian Navy assigned to Fincantieri. The unit is valued at approximately 500 million including the related Integrated Logistic Support and In Service Support. This signature also dissolves other options that complete the maintenance support of the submarines already contracted.

Fincantieri has announced that at the same time it is activated An Important Engineering Change Proposal for Industrialization in Italy, production and integration on board of all U212NFS of an innovative lithium energy storage system (Lithium Battery System) which will replace the traditional lead currently in use. Such state-of-the-art technology will increase the underwater autonomy of submarines.

"This project," said Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Fincantieri - contributes to expanding our presence in the underwater domain, a strategic area in which the fundamental challenges of the geopolitical balances and technological innovation of the future. In addition to the order for the construction of a new submarine of latest generation, we have signed the agreement for the new Lithium Battery System, which represents an absolute innovation in systems underwater propulsion, testifying to Fincantieri's commitment and of the Italian Navy for the development and the industrialization of state-of-the-art underwater technologies international'.