TKMS has awarded Valbruna ASW an initial order for non-magnetic submarine steel to support Canada’s Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP).
The agreement also expands cooperation between the two companies to strengthen submarine material production and supply chains. The move supports Canada’s long-term plans to develop advanced submarine capabilities.
TKMS Orders Special Steel
TKMS has placed an initial order with Valbruna ASW Inc. for about 70 tons of non-magnetic submarine steel. The Canadian company is part of the Acciaierie Valbruna Group, a global producer of specialty stainless steels and nickel alloys. The material will support supply chain testing and qualification work for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP).
The order aims to help Valbruna ASW meet the standards required for non-magnetic submarine steel. The qualification process follows the requirements of Germany’s Institute for Defence Materials and Production Technology (WIWeB). Non-magnetic steel is used in submarines because it reduces magnetic signatures, making the vessels harder to detect.
Partnership Expands Cooperation
Alongside the order, TKMS and Valbruna ASW signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen their industrial partnership. The companies will work together to melt, produce, and supply the specialized steel required for modern submarine platforms. The agreement also supports Canada’s efforts to build stronger domestic industrial capabilities for future submarine programs.
Thomas Keupp, Chief Sales Officer at TKMS, said the company values partnerships with suppliers capable of meeting the demanding material requirements of next-generation submarines.
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He added that the agreement strengthens cooperation on critical submarine-grade materials while supporting opportunities linked to Canada’s future submarine program. The collaboration also reflects the growing importance of reliable supply chains in defence manufacturing.
Meeting Naval Standards
As part of the agreement, both companies will evaluate the steps required for Valbruna ASW to qualify as a producer of the specialized steel. The process includes meeting technical requirements set by WIWeB and the classification society DNV. It also requires compliance with Construction Regulations 1050 for German Navy ships issued by Germany’s Federal Office of Defence Technology and Procurement.
These standards ensure that submarine materials meet strict safety, durability, and performance requirements. Qualification also helps ensure that steel produced in Canada meets internationally accepted naval specifications. This approach supports consistent quality across advanced submarine programs.
Building Canadian capability
Valbruna ASW General Manager Tiziano Briozzo said the company will contribute its expertise in stainless steel production and metallurgical engineering to a program that is important for Canada.
He said the partnership strengthens national supply chains, supports workforce development, and expands the company’s relationship with TKMS beyond Europe. Briozzo added that both companies are working to establish long-term submarine-grade steel production capability in Canada.
The agreement aligns with Canada’s efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing while supporting future submarine acquisitions. It also creates opportunities for local production of critical materials instead of relying entirely on overseas suppliers. As the CPSP progresses, the partnership is expected to play an important role in developing a resilient supply chain for Canada’s next generation of submarines.
