German Government Approves Expansion of 212CD Submarine Program with Norway

The German Bundestag and Federal Government approved the expansion of the German-Norwegian submarine program yesterday, awarding thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).

The company didn’t mention the value of the contract but called it “one of the largest orders in recent history.”

The contract, part of the 212CD program, was signed in Koblenz by Annette Lehnigk-Emden, President of the Bundeswehr Procurement Agency, and TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard following parliamentary approval.

The procurement of additional 212CD submarines will result in advance payments that are expected to positively affect cash flow this year. Norway has also indicated plans to increase its own submarine order, strengthening the partnership between the two nations.

The Type 212CD submarines represent a new generation of conventional submarines with enhanced situational awareness, networking capabilities, and a reduced signature.

TKMS has invested over €250 million since 2019 in expanding its shipbuilding infrastructure in Kiel and acquired additional shipyard capacity in Wismar.

The expanded order also reinforces TKMS’s partnership with Norway's Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA) and supports job creation in Germany and Norway. A new service yard in Norway will further enhance operational, logistical, and maintenance synergies for the 212CD 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 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.