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 program authorities convened to discuss the latest developments in submarine rescue systems and operational interoperability.
Mr. Antonio Palomba, Platform Officer for the NFS Program, 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 Program, 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 recognized 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 program management model. The event provided a strategic platform to enhance international visibility for the U212 NFS Program and foster potential cooperation with other nations.
