The NATO forum gathered 111 representatives from 22 nations,
including contributions from both NATO and non-NATO countries in the
Asia-Pacific region, marking 20 years of continued multinational cooperation in
the field. Military stakeholders and programme authorities convened to discuss
the latest developments in submarine rescue systems and operational
interoperability.
Mr. Antonio Palomba, Platform Officer for the NFS Programme,
delivered a strategic presentation during the Plenary Section, introducing the
integrated rescue concept known as the rescue triangle, comprising the
Ship ITS Olterra (the new Italian Submarine Rescue Ship under
construction), the S.A.V.E.R. system (Submarines: Assistance, Ventilation
Equipment and Rescue – the new Italian rescue system currently being
delivered), and the Submarine U212 NFS (Near Future Submarine), in terms of
interoperability, standards, and state of the art technology.
The presentation also introduced the concept of ROV
Compliancy, integrated in the NFS Programme, which was later explored in
greater depth during a dedicated Technical Syndicate session. There, a mature
and validated solution—developed in collaboration with the Design Authority and
leading Oil & Gas partners—was presented, demonstrating feasible actuators
for ROV manipulators.
This approach was recognised by participants as a benchmark
for addressing previously unexamined gaps in submarine rescue doctrine. OCCAR’s
modular and adaptable solution attracted strong interest, with multiple
delegations acknowledging the value of its technical contribution.
While SMERWG traditionally focuses on rescue-specific
topics, OCCAR’s participation also served to highlight its lean, goal-oriented
programme management model. The event provided a strategic platform to enhance
international visibility for the U212 NFS Programme and foster potential
cooperation with other nations.