TKMS campaign manager Holger Isbrecht discusses what comes after TKMS was named preferred supplier for Canada’s Patrol Submarine Project. He explains how the Type 212 CD program could build Canadian industrial capacity, strengthen operational sovereignty, and deepen cooperation with Germany and Norway, while stressing that delivery and readiness remain essential.
CONVERSATIONS WITH VANGUARD DEFENCE
TKMS's take on developing a sovereign Canadian sub program
Key Topics
TKMS’s preferred-supplier selection is a milestone, but Isbrecht says the next priorities are contractual agreement, implementation preparation, trust, commitment and execution.
The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project is framed as an industrial program as well as a submarine purchase, with opportunities for Canadian companies, shipyards, universities and research institutions.
The program is based on up to 12 submarines, offering potential for long-term industrial development and clearly defined responsibilities for Canadian partners.
Isbrecht emphasizes developing Canadian engineers, technicians and specialists in submarine technology, system integration and advanced manufacturing, with knowledge transfer rather than equipment delivery alone.
Building domestic maintenance, repair and support capabilities and reliable supply chains is presented as key to Canadian operational sovereignty, readiness and national security.
Canada’s potential participation in the Type 212 CD community could connect Canadian companies to European supply chains and strengthen industrial cooperation with Germany and Norway.
A common submarine platform could support shared training, operational experience and procedures among Canada, Germany and Norway, especially in the Atlantic and Arctic.
Isbrecht defines long-term success as capable submarines delivered on time, a strong Canadian submarine industry, and a partnership grounded in trust and mutual respect.
