Comprehensive modernization of 212A ships

thyssenkrupp Marine Systems signed with the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) the largest contract in its history with a value of more than 800 million euros.

In the article

Longwave reinforcement of Deutsche Marine submarine forces

One of the most important contracts concerning the maintenance and modernisation of submarines in the history of the German shipbuilding industry was concluded in the German Coblence. The subject of the agreement is a ten-year modernisation programmesix ships of type 212A– the core of the Deutsche Marine underwater component.

The work will modernise key on-board systems, including navigation systems and command and fire management systems. The specific scope of the modernisation will be covered by the first four units entered into service from 2005 to 2007.

Maintaining technological advantage and alliance capacity

According to Oliver Burkhard, TKMS president, the agreement not only strengthens the long-term combat value of the German submarine fleet, but also confirms the status of tkMS as a strategic partner of the Bundeswehr in the area of technical support.

As a naval technological power, we intend to use the full potential of our services to ensure the high operational readiness of the fleet.
stressed Burkhard in the official communication

The implementation of the contract will maintain the production and service capacity of tkMS in Kilonia and Emden, which will ensure continuity of competence and stability of employment in the German shipbuilding industry.

212CD and international expansion TKMS

In parallel to the 212A modernisation programme, the German industry is implementing the construction of a new generation of Type 212CD submarines as part of the joint ventureFederal Republic of Germanyand the Kingdom of Norway. Within it, six units were contracted: four for Sjøforsvaret and two for Deutsche Marine. The new type is to set an operating standard for NATO submarine forces for decades to come.

Important for Poland, it was the type 212CD (Common Design) ship that was offered the Polish website as part of the Orka program. These units will be driven using lithium-iron phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) and integrated air-independent propulsion (AIP – Air Independent Propulsion).

In a time of growing geopolitical tensions and the importance of maritime security in the Baltic Sea, the German modernisation programme should be seen as part of a long-term strategy to maintain technological advantage and operational readiness. The thoughtful modernisation of Type 212A ships is an expression of a consistent policy that assumes not only the development of new capabilities but also the efficient management of the already existing potential.

Source: tkMS/MD