New agreement between Singapore and Thyssenkrupp foresees expansion of the Type 218SG submarine fleet with advanced technology and focus on strategic maritime defense.
German company Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) signed a new contract with the Singapore government on Wednesday (7) for the construction of two additional Type 218SG submarines, expanding the Asian country's Navy fleet.
The agreement cements the long-standing cooperation between the two nations in the naval defense sector, reinforcing TKMS’ position as a supplier of cutting-edge submarine technology.
Advanced submarines strengthen Singapore's strategic capabilities
Designed with a focus on tactical performance, the Type 218SG is considered one of the submarines most sophisticated diesel-electric vehicles ever developed.
-
It sounds easy, but it's not: the methods used to launch ships into the sea require cutting-edge engineering and techniques that generate tension.
-
Bahia leads naval investments in 2025 with the largest share of the FMM and strengthens its presence in the national naval sector with R$7,1 billion
-
For over 5 years, anchors have been holding ships together — and they also symbolize faith, strength and hope. From ancient times to modern models, learn the history of this essential item
-
The billion-dollar plan to rebuild the Naval Industry in Brazil starts in Rio de Janeiro
At around 70 meters long and with a displacement of 2.000 tons, the model is optimized for prolonged missions in deep and shallow waters.
The main differences between the Type 218SG are:
- Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, which allows submerged operation for long periods;
- High automation e superior maneuverability, which reduce the need for crew and increase operational precision;
- Low acoustic and radar signature, making it difficult for adversaries to detect;
- Increased payload capacity, for additional weapons and sensors.
Production will take place at existing facilities in Germany
Even with the production schedule full until the 2040s, Thyssenkrupp guaranteed that the manufacture of the new submarines will be done without the need for physical expansion of the shipyards.
The company highlights that its current structure is already prepared to absorb the new demand, maintaining the quality standards and stipulated deadlines.
Singapore already operates Type 218SG class units, the result of a program developed jointly by German engineers and Singaporean experts, with the aim of adapting the submarine to the specific needs of the Southeast Asian region.
Thyssenkrupp achieves record backlog of contracts
With the signing of this new agreement, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems’ contract portfolio reaches its highest ever volume, reflecting the steady growth of the company’s maritime defense business.
TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard commented on the significance of the new agreement:
“We are proud that Singapore has once again placed its trust in us. Our partnership goes beyond building submarines; we feel a deep connection with the country and contribute our solutions to its security and defense.”
German manufacturer Thyssenkrupp thus reinforces its global leadership in naval safety solutions, with a focus on innovation, precision engineering and long-lasting strategic alliances.