The partnership establishes a framework for collaboration in research, technology transfer and investment. It is intended to integrate Canadian lithium resources into submarine supply chains and broader defence applications.
Officials said the agreement aligns with Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits policy. It also aims to create opportunities for international cooperation and export activities.
Thomas Keupp, Chief Sales Officer at TKMS, said the programme is central to Canada’s naval development. “The CPSP represents a cornerstone of Canada’s naval capability, and critical minerals are essential to the technology that powers tomorrow’s submarines,” he said.
“Through this agreement with E3 Lithium, we are not only securing access to a sustainable supply of lithium but also strengthening the industrial partnership between Germany and Canada,” Keupp added.
“This cooperation reflects our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and long-term capability development,” he said. The companies aim to support both domestic and international industrial requirements.
Under the agreement, the partners will explore the use of lithium from Canada in strategic applications. This includes potential supply to German and allied industrial customers.
E3 Lithium will contribute expertise in resource development, extraction and processing. The company is developing the Clearwater Project, which is expected to produce up to 36,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium annually at full capacity.
Chris Doornbos, CEO of E3 Lithium, said the partnership connects Canadian resources with global markets. “Partnering with TKMS allows us to connect Canada’s critical minerals industry with strategic global markets while supporting a transformative national defense program,” he said.
“This agreement is a strong step toward leveraging Canada’s lithium resources to create sustainable economic value, advance technology transfer, and strengthen industrial ties with Germany and allied nations,” Doornbos added.
The agreement is expected to support the development of a resilient supply chain for submarine and defence technologies. It also provides a basis for future cooperation on international projects involving advanced systems.
Officials said the collaboration combines TKMS’s global naval expertise with E3 Lithium’s position in the Canadian lithium sector. The initiative is intended to contribute to long-term defence capability development and industrial cooperation.
