Germany, Norway, Canada and Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) have officially begun the planning phase for the multinational 212CD submarine programme, according to an announcement from TKMS.
The event, wihch took place in Kiel at the end of July, marking the operational start of joint cooperation between the three nations’ navies and partner companies Kongsberg and Multiconsult.
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It brought together representatives from all partners to coordinate the next stages of the programme, establish working groups, and prepare for forthcoming contract negotiations.
The session also set the foundation for ongoing collaboration between navies, procurement agencies and the involved industries, TKMS stated.
This development comes shortly after Canada named TKMS its preferred supplier for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), which aims to replace the Royal Canadian Navy’s existing Victoria-class submarines.
The CPSP will see up to 12 new submarines, based on the 212CD design, delivered to Canada, following a competitive selection process that included rival South Korean firm Hanwha Ocean.
TKMS chief sales officer Thomas Keupp said: “The selection of TKMS as Preferred Supplier for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project is a significant milestone. With the first trilateral planning event, we are jointly laying the foundation for a trusting and cooperative partnership with Germany, Norway and Canada.”
According to TKMS, the Kiel planning event is the starting point for an intensive period of collaboration.
Further negotiations to formalise agreements among Germany, Norway, Canada and industry are expected in the weeks ahead, as the project advances towards implementation of the joint 212CD submarine fleet.
The 212CD submarine is a non-nuclear vessel derived from the 212A class, featuring an enlarged, diamond-shaped hull intended to reduce acoustic signature. Its propulsion system will combine diesel engines with hydrogen fuel cell-based air-independent technology, allowing for extended submerged operations.
According to technical information from the manufacturers, the submarine will be about 74 metres (m) long, with a beam of 10m metres and a surfaced displacement of 2,500m3.
Each vessel will include the advanced ORCCA combat system and will be armed with naval strike missile (NSM) anti-ship guided missiles, as well as heavyweight torpedoes and torpedo countermeasures.
The platform is also designed to accommodate unmanned vehicle operations and off-board sensor technology.
