The CEO of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), the German company poised to construct Canada’s new submarines, is advocating for enhanced collaboration among European shipbuilders. This initiative could have implications in Canada as the navy explores the addition of corvettes to its fleet. Oliver Burkhard emphasized TKMS’s recent partnership with Navantia S.A., a Spanish government-owned entity, to explore joint naval projects, potentially including the production of TKMS submarine designs in Spain.
Burkhard highlighted the increasing demand for warship construction, noting a consistent rise in demand despite challenges such as time constraints. A recent report projects a more than five percent increase in demand for warship construction over the next decade.
In addition to the submarine project, the Canadian navy is progressing with the construction of River-Class destroyers and considering the necessity for smaller, cost-effective, ice-capable corvettes. The destroyers are under construction at Irving Shipbuilding in Halifax, part of the National Shipbuilding Program. Since Canada lacks modern submarine building capabilities, the planned 12 submarines will be constructed in Germany.
Burkhard’s upcoming visit to Ottawa aims to engage with companies partnering with TKMS for Canada’s submarine program. TKMS was recently selected as the preferred supplier for the navy’s submarines, with a contract expected to be finalized by the end of 2027, ahead of schedule.
While discussing potential collaboration, Burkhard mentioned the possibility of supplying the MEKO A-100 corvette design to a Canadian shipyard to strengthen Canada’s defense-industrial base. The concept is under consideration, with no formal pitch to Canadian officials as yet.
The Canadian navy identified the need for corvettes last year and has been evaluating different roles and capabilities for such vessels. Defence experts emphasize the importance of fulfilling military requirements promptly, with Burkhard acknowledging the readiness to explore options for local production.
Efforts towards closer cooperation among European shipyards, especially in submarine construction, reflect market conditions and capacity constraints within the industry. Burkhard drew parallels to the aerospace industry’s creation of Airbus in the 1960s, suggesting that a similar approach could benefit the shipbuilding sector.
The necessity for enhanced partnerships among European defense companies has been emphasized by strategic studies, signaling a need for increased collaboration despite existing challenges.