These ships were followed by the improved SAURO Class of 4 ships. Three of these are currently in commission. The last one would enter service by the end of 1994. This class of vessels is slightly larger than its predecessor but its chief advantage is that it can dive to a greater depth (1,970 feet) and can be equipped with UGM-84 sub HARPOON underwater launched anti-ship missiles. In this way the ships can strike a surface target while submerged many miles away and not risk exposure. They also have improved electronics.

Currently the Italian Navy submarine force consists of the following ships:

2 TOTI Class
4 SAURO Class
3 SAURO Class (improved)

Making a total of 9 vessels. Of these ships, the 2 TOTI Class boats are to be withdrawn shortly. One improved SAURO was to enter service at the end of 1994; the S-90 is being planned which should consist of at least 2 but as many as 4 boats. By the end of the decade the Italian Navy should have between 10 and 12 submarines in service. none of these will be nuclear powered boats, and it doesn’t look like any nuclear powered submarines are planned for the foreseeable future because of the great cost. During the 1950’s some thought was given to acquiring nuclear submarines, but that plan was abandoned because of the cost.