The German and Italian companies signed a memorandum of understanding covering closer technological and commercial cooperation. Completion of the planned framework remains subject to applicable regulatory processes.
The partnership is intended to address fragmentation in Europe’s submarine and underwater sector by combining the companies’ complementary capabilities. TKMS and Fincantieri said a more integrated approach could improve industrial efficiency and competitiveness while supporting long-term capability development.
“Our partnership with Fincantieri demonstrates what European industrial collaboration can achieve when it is built on trust and shared technological excellence,” TKMS Chief Executive Oliver Burkhard said. “By combining our complementary expertise, we can drive innovation, create new opportunities for our customers, and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy.”
The memorandum provides a basis for joint technology work, commercial opportunities and the development of an advanced underwater industrial ecosystem. The companies also plan to examine international procurement opportunities that could be addressed more effectively through cooperation.
“Together with TKMS, we are building on a longstanding partnership to create new opportunities in innovation, industrial efficiency and technological development,” Fincantieri Chief Executive and Managing Director Pierroberto Folgiero said. “At a time when Europe is called upon to strengthen its defense capabilities, de-fragmentation represents a concrete and pragmatic path towards a more competitive and integrated industrial base.”
The proposed partnership does not involve a merger or acquisition, and TKMS and Fincantieri will continue to operate independently. Existing contracts, programmes and projects will remain unaffected by the agreement.
The companies have worked together for decades on the 212A and 212NFS submarine classes, providing the industrial foundation for the expanded relationship. Any joint activity will remain subject to customer approval, competition law, export-control rules and other regulatory requirements.
