They are attachments for one of the Italian Navy’s most differentiating capabilities: special forces mini-subs. The 9 small blocks visible on the submarine's casing relate to a special forces capability H I Sutton (Original photo NATO released)The Italian Navy can claim to have invented the modern art of special forces frogmen. Another possibility is that the attachments are for a Special Forces hangar, known as a dry deck shelter (DDS). The Italian Navy is thought to use the CABI Cattaneo of Milan ‘Deep Guardian’ hangar and Rotinor Blackshadow 730 DPVs. For example there have been rumors of Italian Special Forces operating in war-torn North Africa.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 04, 2020 12:50 UTC