Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said on Tuesday that if Canada joins its submarine partnership with Norway, the three countries could share shipyard resources, spare parts, and logistics.
Pistorius highlighted that collaboration could extend to crew exchanges and operations even in the Indo-Pacific. The comments came as German and Norwegian officials visited Ottawa to promote the 212CD submarines from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, which is bidding for Canada’s new submarine contract.
Pistorius emphasized that while other competitors may offer lower prices, Germany’s proposal promises a “reliable partnership for decades” in North Atlantic cooperation. The visit comes just before Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to visit South Korea to see rival bidder Hanwha’s shipyard.
During their visit, the ministers met with key Canadian officials, including Industry, Defence, and Natural Resources ministers, as well as the defence procurement secretary. Pistorius also expressed Germany’s interest in collaborating on raw materials, hydro energy, LNG, aircraft, and software procurement from Canadian companies.
He added that ThyssenKrupp Marine could build some submarines or components domestically in Canada if desired. With Canada’s current fleet of four submarines due for retirement by 2035, the procurement of new vessels is a priority. ThyssenKrupp Marine has pledged to meet Canada’s tight 2035 deadline.
Rival bidder Hanwha has proposed an aggressive schedule, promising to deliver four submarines by 2035, with one new sub each year after, completing a fleet of 12 by 2043.
Norway’s Defence Minister Tore Sandvik noted that Norway and Germany maintain compatible submarine fleets and can stockpile resources together. He offered Canada access to Norway’s submarine maintenance site designs to shorten delivery and maintenance times.
Experts warn that acquiring a new submarine fleet is extremely complex and costly, with long-term implications, as Canada could operate the new submarines for 40 to 50 years.
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