Canada is set to procure Type 212CD submarines from the German manufacturer TKMS. This model has been jointly developed for use by Germany and Norway. The contract marks TKMS’s largest submarine project in its history, beating out a South Korean competitor after intense negotiations. The first submarine is scheduled for delivery in 2033.
Historically, Canada has sourced around 80% of its military goods from the United States. However, the relationship has soured since the recent inauguration of President Trump.
Though neither Canada nor TKMS disclosed exact contract figures, media reports estimate the total cost for the submarines and their service at approximately €20 billion. Including maintenance and operational expenses over the coming decades, the financial commitment could reach around €62 billion.
Construction in Kiel and Wismar
TKMS is one of the world’s leading builders of non-nuclear submarines. Previous reports suggested that Canada expects the first of the new submarines to be operational by 2035, although indications now point to an earlier delivery.
The state-of-the-art submarines will be constructed both at TKMS’s headquarters in Kiel and at its second shipyard in Wismar, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The company plans to create up to 1,500 jobs in Wismar.
New Submarine Class
This new class of submarines offers enhanced sensors for detecting potential adversaries below and on the water’s surface. Each submarine will operate with a crew of around 30 members and is specifically designed for operations in Arctic environments and under ice.
This announcement was broadcasted on July 7, 2026, on Deutschlandfunk.
