Pistorius Promotes Submarines on Canadian Tour: A Strategic Dive into Defense

Germany’s Submarine Sales Pitch

Boris Pistorius is representing German defense interests with confidence in Canada. He boldly claims that German submarines are superior to those of South Korea, Germany’s main competitor in securing the Canadian contract. “They build excellent submarines; we build better ones,” Pistorius stated at a press conference in Ottawa. He emphasizes the advanced capabilities and technology of German submarines, asserting their market superiority.

The Submarine in Question

The submarine model discussed, built by thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) based in Kiel and involving Norwegian collaboration, measures 73 meters. The potential order from Canada represents a multi-billion dollar opportunity. Pistorius highlights the importance of securing and promoting this key technology, along with the associated industrial jobs and know-how in Germany.

The Type 212CD submarine, equipped with advanced stealth technology and significant operational range, is touted by Pistorius as the most modern in the market. “We’re not just talking about selling a certain number of submarines. It’s about more than a transaction; it’s about a partnership spanning decades, about 40 or 50 years,” he explains. Such a duration matches the operational lifespan of submarines, during which maintenance and crew training can benefit from standardized equipment across nations.

Advantages of Standardization

Norwegian Defense Minister Tore Sandvik supports the initiative for standardized military equipment. He refers to Ukraine’s experience with incompatible military aid from different countries to advocate for uniform system purchases among allies.

Competitive Pricing from South Korea

Price considerations are crucial in Canada’s decision-making process on which submarine system to acquire. South Korea claims it can produce submarines more cost-effectively and deliver them faster than the competition from Germany and Norway. Additionally, negotiations are ongoing regarding what compensations Canada would receive in the deal, a common practice in large defense contracts.

Thomas Erndl, a CSU member of the Bundestag and defense policy spokesperson for the Union faction, who is part of the delegation, stresses the existing industrial exchange between Germany and Canada. “We purchase planes for the Bundeswehr in Canada and are exploring various software systems produced here, so there’s already significant trade with the Canadian industry,” he notes. This exchange could intensify if the submarine deal materializes, with TKMS proposing to shift parts of its production to Canada. However, the Canadian government has not yet tipped its hand on its preferred supplier, with a decision expected by next spring.