The CEO of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), a German company slated to construct Canada’s new submarines, is advocating for increased collaboration among European shipbuilders. This initiative could have implications in Canada as the navy deliberates on incorporating corvettes into its fleet.
Oliver Burkhard, the head of TKMS, emphasized the recent partnership between his company and the Spanish government-owned Navantia S.A. The two entities are exploring joint ventures in naval projects, potentially including the production of TKMS submarine designs at Navantia’s shipyards in Spain.
Burkhard stressed the importance of cooperation among shipbuilders in response to the rising demand for warship construction globally. A recent report by Imarc projected a more than five percent increase in demand over the next decade.
Apart from submarines, the Canadian navy is currently constructing River-Class destroyers and has expressed interest in acquiring smaller, cost-effective, ice-capable corvettes. Irving Shipbuilding in Halifax is building the destroyers under the National Shipbuilding Program, which is nearing completion of the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships.
Due to Canada’s lack of contemporary submarine manufacturing expertise, the planned 12 submarines will be built in Germany. The official contract with TKMS is anticipated by the end of 2027, following the recent selection as the preferred supplier by the Carney government.
Burkhard mentioned discussions around the potential supply of TKMS’ MEKO A-100 corvette design to a Canadian shipyard, which could enhance Canada’s defense-industrial capabilities. While this concept was not part of the submarine bid, Burkhard confirmed its consideration.
The Canadian navy identified the need for corvettes last year and has been evaluating the roles and capabilities such a vessel would require. Notably, Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, previously the navy commander and now the vice chief of defense, supported the necessity of smaller warships for coastal defense.
Rob Huebert, a defense expert, emphasized the importance of addressing military requirements before economic considerations. He acknowledged the need for corvettes and welcomed Burkhard’s recognition of the urgency for nations, including Canada, to bolster their naval capabilities.
Huebert highlighted the significance of enhanced cooperation among European shipyards, particularly in submarine construction, citing the need to balance capacity among different companies. Burkhard drew parallels between the current shipbuilding market conditions and the formation of Airbus in the 1960s to counter U.S. aerospace competition.
While acknowledging the complexity of establishing a maritime equivalent of Airbus, Burkhard suggested that the industry could take the lead in promoting joint ventures. He emphasized the potential benefits of industry-driven collaboration akin to the formation of Airbus in the 1970s.
The necessity for closer partnerships among European defense companies was underscored in a study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) three years ago, pointing out that European countries were investing more in defense but engaging in limited cooperation, presenting a persistent challenge.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/submarines-germany-canada-corevettes-warships-9.7308142)
