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Thyssenkrupp wins contract to build two more Type 218SG submarines for Singapore

Written by Sara Aquino
Published 08/05/2025 às 19:46
New agreement between Singapore and Thyssenkrupp foresees expansion of the Type 218SG submarine fleet with technology and focus on strategic maritime defense.
Photo: Thyssenkrupp

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.

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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.
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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.

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Sara Aquino

General Pharmacist and Writer. I write about Jobs, Courses, Science, Technology and Energy. Passionate about reading, writing and music.

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