The CEO of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), the German company set to construct Canada’s new submarines, is advocating for increased collaboration among European shipbuilders. This move could have implications for Canada as the navy contemplates incorporating corvettes into its fleet. Oliver Burkhard emphasized the recent partnership between TKMS and Spain’s Navantia S.A., aiming to explore joint naval projects, potentially including the production of TKMS submarine designs at Navantia’s shipyards.
Burkhard highlighted the rising demand for warship construction, noting the current trend of ample funding but limited time in the market. A report by Imarc forecasts a more than five percent growth in demand over the next decade. Alongside submarine development, Canada is progressing with the construction of River-Class destroyers, and there is a suggested military requirement for smaller, cost-effective, ice-capable corvettes.
As Canada lacks contemporary submarine building expertise, the planned 12 boats will be manufactured in Germany. Burkhard, ahead of his visit to Ottawa, is engaging with companies partnering with TKMS for Canada’s submarine program. The Carney government recently selected TKMS as the preferred supplier for the navy’s submarines, aiming to finalize a contract by the end of 2027.
Regarding the possibility of exporting the MEKO A-100 corvette design to Canada, Burkhard confirmed that while it was under consideration, no formal pitch has been made to Canadian officials yet. The Canadian navy recognized the need for corvettes last year and is evaluating the role and capabilities of such vessels.
University of Calgary defense expert Rob Huebert stressed the importance of meeting military necessities before focusing on economic benefits in defense procurement. He supported the need for corvettes and commended Burkhard for acknowledging the urgency for nations, including Canada, to enhance their naval capabilities. Burkhard compared the current shipbuilding market dynamics to the 1960s when European aerospace companies formed Airbus to counter U.S. defense contractors’ dominance.
Although creating a maritime equivalent of Airbus would be complex, Burkhard suggested that the industry could spearhead the initiative. He highlighted the necessity for closer partnerships among European defense firms, echoing recommendations from a study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) three years ago. The study emphasized that despite increased defense spending, European countries were collaborating less, posing a significant challenge.