Local law enforcement, specifically North SPD, advocates for Federal intervention at the U-boat manufacturing company, TKMS. - Commission Intends to Implement New Competition Rules Application Regulations
The federal government is considering entering the Kiel-based U-boat manufacturer, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), a defense ministry spokesperson hinted on Thursday. The move, if implemented, could bolster TKMS's significant role in constructing U-boats and benefit the German Navy, according to the spokesperson.
Schleswig-Holstein's SPD state parliament faction leader, Serpil Midyatli, urges the federal government to participate in TKMS, stating it's not only in Schleswig-Holstein's interest, but a necessity. Midyatli, who is also the deputy federal chairwoman of the SPD, points out the shipbuilding industry's critical role in the international security situation and the changing European security architecture. As well, TKMS plays a significant role in Schleswig-Holstein, providing numerous high-tech jobs.
Midyatli suggests that the state could guarantee TKMS's economic viability during challenging times. A potential state participation, she claims, would be a strategic signal for Kiel and all of Schleswig-Holstein. Meanwhile, IG Metall district leader Daniel Friedrich presses the black-red federal government to undertake a state entry into TKMS with a minimum of 25.1 percent blocking stake. Friedrich believes this would secure independence for the marine division with appropriate control rights and safeguards.
Thyssenkrupp had previously disclosed plans for the independence of its divisions, potentially extending to TKMS after the steel and marine divisions. Reports indicate that Thyssenkrupp aims to conduct an IPO of its marine division while preserving control. Sources also mention previous discussions with the former federal government and promotional bank, KfW, regarding a federal entry.
TKMS has a fully booked order book extending to the early 2040s. In December, the Bundestag's Budget Committee authorized the construction of four modern 212CD-class submarines for the German Navy. The order value for the German units alone amounts to €4.7 billion. Additionally, Singapore ordered two more submarines from TKMS earlier in May, increasing the order book to approximately €18 billion.
In the near future, TKMS aims to secure a potential submarine contract with Canada. A TKMS representative office was recently opened in Ottawa, with the company considering it a significant milestone in the 212CD project and a potential long-term contact point in North America. TKMS, in addition to its main shipyard in Kiel, also operates a shipyard in Wismar, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, planning to construct submarines and warships there, similar to its operations in Kiel.
- The potential federation entry into Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) could provide aid for the production of electricity, as the construction of submarines requires a significant amount of energy, focusing on energy efficiency to cut costs and reduce carbon emissions.
- In the manufacturing industry, TKMS is a key player, employing numerous people in high-tech jobs, not only in Schleswig-Holstein but potentially in other regions as well, if TKMS expands its operations in North America.
- The Premier League and other European leagues might benefit from industry finance investments, as increased economic stability and influence could lead to better sports infrastructure and sponsorship opportunities for clubs in the league.
- A community aid project could be established to improve energy efficiency in sports facilities across the country, potentially reducing energy usage in football stadiums and contributing to a greener and more sustainable sports industry.
