The CEO of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), the German company selected to construct Canada’s new submarines, is advocating for enhanced collaboration among European shipbuilders. This initiative could have implications for Canada as the navy mulls over the addition of corvettes to its fleet.
In an interview with CBC News, Oliver Burkhard emphasized the recent partnership between TKMS and Navantia S.A., a Spanish government-owned company. The two firms are exploring cooperative ventures on naval projects, potentially involving the production of TKMS submarine designs at Navantia’s shipyards in Spain.
Burkhard stressed the importance of shipbuilders working together in light of the growing demand for warship construction. According to a report by Imarc, this demand is projected to increase by over five percent in the next decade.
Apart from submarines, the Canadian navy is progressing with the construction of River-Class destroyers and has expressed interest in smaller, cost-effective, ice-capable corvettes. The destroyers are currently being built in Halifax by Irving Shipbuilding under the National Shipbuilding Program.
Given Canada’s lack of modern submarine construction capabilities, the planned 12 submarines will be manufactured in Germany. Burkhard is set to visit Ottawa to meet with companies collaborating with TKMS on Canada’s submarine program.
TKMS has been identified as the preferred supplier for Canada’s submarine project, with the government aiming to finalize the contract by the end of 2027. Burkhard anticipates a swift conclusion to the agreement due to the government’s prompt actions in this regard.
Regarding the potential export of the MEKO A-100 corvette design to Canada, Burkhard mentioned that while it is not part of the submarine bid, it is being considered as a future option.
The Canadian navy recognized the need for corvettes last year and has been evaluating various options for the role and capabilities of such a warship. Defense expert Rob Huebert emphasized the importance of addressing military requirements before economic benefits in defense procurement decisions.
Burkhard highlighted the necessity for closer collaboration among European shipyards, particularly in submarine construction, drawing parallels to the formation of Airbus in the 1960s. He suggested that industry-led initiatives could pave the way for enhanced partnerships akin to Airbus in the shipbuilding sector.