The programme, which involves the construction of six advanced submarines, is a collaborative effort between Norway and Germany. Norway has committed to acquiring four of the submarines, while Germany will receive two. The completion of the CDR phase signifies that the design process has met all necessary requirements and is ready to proceed to the construction phase.
Norwegian Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasised the importance of this development, stating, “This represents a crucial step forward in German-Norwegian cooperation, enhancing the future defence capabilities of both nations.”
The milestone was achieved in the summer of 2024, in accordance with the schedule set by the German-Norwegian Joint Project Organisation (JPO) and the supplier, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS). The design phase, which commenced nearly three years ago following the contract signing in 2021, involved a meticulous review of over 100,000 pages of documentation to ensure compliance with approximately 6,000 contractual requirements.
The design work for the submarines accounts for just under a quarter of the total costs, which are shared between Norway and Germany. The success of this phase was made possible through close collaboration between the project organisations, including Norway’s Defence Material and Germany’s BAAINBw.
With the design phase now complete, the focus of the joint project will shift entirely to the construction and monitoring of the submarines. The first submarine is expected to undergo testing in 2027, with delivery to the Norwegian Navy anticipated by 2029.
Furthermore, discussions are ongoing between Norway, Germany, and the supplier to potentially increase the number of Type 212CD submarines for both countries, reflecting the growing importance of this strategic defence initiative.
