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 impact Canada’s navy as it explores the addition of corvettes to its fleet. In a recent interview with CBC News, Oliver Burkhard emphasized TKMS’s recent partnership with the Spanish government-owned Navantia S.A., indicating potential joint naval projects, including the production of TKMS submarine designs at Navantia’s shipyards in Spain.
Burkhard highlighted the necessity for shipbuilders to work together, noting the rising demand for warship construction. A report by Imarc forecasted a more than five percent increase in demand over the next decade. Alongside the submarine project, the Canadian navy has commenced the construction of River-Class destroyers and expressed interest in acquiring smaller, cost-effective, ice-capable corvettes.
As Canada lacks modern submarine building expertise, the planned 12 submarines will be manufactured in Germany. Burkhard shared insights ahead of his visit to Ottawa, where he will engage with companies collaborating with TKMS on Canada’s submarine program. The Carney government recently designated TKMS as the preferred submarine supplier and aims to finalize the contract by the end of 2027.
Additionally, discussions have surfaced regarding the possibility of TKMS supplying its MEKO A-100 corvette design to a Canadian shipyard, potentially enhancing Canada’s defense-industrial capabilities. The concept, though not part of the submarine bid, remains under consideration. The Canadian navy identified the need for corvettes last year and has been evaluating the role and capabilities of such a warship.
Experts emphasize the importance of military necessity in defense procurement decisions. Rob Huebert, a defense specialist, supports the acquisition of corvettes to bolster the navy’s fleet. He lauded the potential for increased ship construction, emphasizing the need for ship replacement capabilities in times of conflict. The prospect of a maritime equivalent of Airbus, fostering cooperation among European shipyards, has been introduced as a solution to address capacity disparities among shipbuilders.
While acknowledging the complexity of establishing a maritime Airbus, Burkhard suggested that industry leadership could drive such an initiative. Closer partnerships among European defense companies have been identified as crucial, as highlighted by a study from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) three years ago. The study underscored the need for increased defense spending collaboration among European nations.