Germany, Norway Lay Foundation for 212CD Submarine Maintenance Yard

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Norwegian counterpart Bjørn Arild Gram have laid the foundation stone for a new maintenance yard in Bergen, Norway, which will support the repair of the German and Norwegian 212CD class submarines.

The 212CD submarines, currently under construction, are set to be delivered to Norway by 2029 and Germany by 2032. Both countries are exploring additional purchases to enhance their joint defense capabilities against the Russian maritime threat.

The Type 212CD submarines build on the German Navy’s 212A class with enhanced sensor technology, range, sound signature reduction, and combat control systems. These upgrades improve situational awareness, interoperability with allied forces, and minimize enemy detection. The submarines are approximately 73 meters long, 10 meters in beam, and have a displacement of 2,500 tons.

With an air-independent propulsion system powered by fuel cells, the 212CD can stay submerged for extended periods. Its design incorporates silent operation and non-magnetic materials to reduce detectability. Additionally, the ORCCA combat system, developed by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, Kongsberg, and Atlas Elektronik, enhances situational awareness, combat management, and firepower capabilities.

The new maintenance yard, scheduled to be operational by the time the first submarine is delivered, will be located at the Haakonsvern naval base. The facility will house a joint lifecycle management office staffed by both German and Norwegian personnel, focusing on submarine maintenance, upgrades, and training. This collaboration goes beyond procurement, fostering long-term cooperation in areas like repairs, spare parts supply, and industry development, with a special emphasis on underwater shipbuilding and sensor technology.

Minister Gram also emphasized the strategic importance of the submarine cooperation in strengthening NATO's European pillar and contributing to collective defense. Both ministers expressed their intention to expand this model of cooperation to other defense projects, such as the joint procurement of anti-ship guided missiles.