TKMS and Navantia sign a second memorandum of understanding to deepen the partnership in the field of submarines.
The two largest European submarine construction companies, TKMS (thyssenkrupp Marine Systems) from Germany and Navantia from Spain, have signed a second memorandum of understanding that deepens their strategic partnership in the field of submarines. According to Naval News, the two companies aim to establish a joint cooperation framework by the end of the year that includes the joint production and marketing of selected submarine projects.
The agreement focuses on expanding production capacity, improving delivery schedules, establishing long-term technological partnerships, and enhancing competitive positioning in international markets. Both parties emphasized that the cooperation does not imply a merger or the transfer of any shares or assets; each company retains its operational independence, and existing contracts and programs remain unaffected.
Statements from Officials
TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard stated that “the security of Europe requires a stronger and more resilient industrial base,” describing the agreement as strengthening the industrial base and European sovereignty. Meanwhile, Navantia’s Chairman Ricardo Dominguez said that the memorandum “highlights Navantia’s capabilities in the submarine field and enhances our presence in this market.”
Navantia’s Chief Operating Officer Gonzalo Mateo-Guerreiro clarified the limits of cooperation, stating that “each company retains its technologies and design authority in its own programs,” indicating a partnership based more on production capacity and marketing rather than technology exchange.
Different Traditions in Submarines
TKMS builds the Type 212 and Type 214 classes, which operate on air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems and are prevalent in export markets, while its latest product, the Type 212CD, is being developed for Germany and Norway. Navantia, on the other hand, is known for the S-80 class developed for the Spanish Navy, with its first submarine, Isaac Peral, already in service.
The collaboration between the two companies reflects the goal of achieving economies of scale in the European submarine industry by integrating the complementary capabilities of programs that each had previously managed separately.
Framework for European Defense Autonomy
The agreement adds a new example to the trend of consolidation in the European defense industry under the pressure of increasing geopolitical tensions. The need across the continent to renew submarine fleets is driving companies to pool their resources and accelerate delivery, and these partnerships may reshape the competitive landscape for other companies in the same export markets.
Sources
- Naval News – “TKMS and Navantia Advance Strategic Submarine Partnership” – July 24, 2026. Link
- Corporate information from TKMS and Navantia – for submarine categories and program background.
