Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) CEO, Oliver Burkhard, emphasized a “strategic partnership” with Canada while promoting submarine sales. Burkhard highlighted the idea of Canada joining a “family” during discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney and his cabinet. Recently, Canada revealed TKMS and South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean Ltd. as the final contenders for the new submarine project. Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Germany includes discussions on trade diversification and a critical minerals partnership, with defence and security issues being a priority.
Carney expressed a commitment to a fair competition and plans to visit Hanwha’s shipyard in South Korea. The debate within the government revolves around proceeding with full proposals or engaging in direct contract negotiations with a preferred bidder. TKMS and Hanwha have both submitted bids, with TKMS advocating for a submarine maintenance facility in Canada to create jobs. The Type 212CD submarine, a joint venture between Germany and Norway, is a leading contender for Canada’s submarine replacement project. It is designed for various ocean operations, including the Arctic, with advanced features like an air-independent propulsion system for extended submerged durations.
The proposed order includes 12 submarines, with the initial six designated for Germany and Norway. The German Navy is set to receive its first 212CD in 2028, with Norway following in 2029. The potential inclusion of Canada in the program could lead to the delivery of the first Canadian submarine by 2032-33. This would involve adjusting the production schedule to accommodate Canada’s entry into the project. Prime Minister Carney aims for a decision on the submarine project by 2027, with the Type 212CD offering impressive specifications such as a length of 73 meters, a submerged weight of 2,800 tonnes, and eight torpedo tubes.