Italian, German shipbuilders partner to bid for Philippine Navy submarine deal

Fincantieri of Italy and Germany’s thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at supplying submarines to the Philippine Navy, including support for the development of a new naval base.

Insider spotlight:

• Fincantieri and tkMS partner to bid for Philippine submarine program
• Pact includes lifecycle support, training, and local infrastructure
• Partnership supports new Philippine naval base construction
• Proposal highlights European submarine technology and industrial plan
• Initiative builds on Fincantieri’s existing engagement with Philippine Navy 

Under the agreement, both companies will jointly offer their industrial and technological capabilities for the Philippines’ submarine acquisition program. The partnership will focus on the procurement of submarines, providing lifecycle support and training services, and bolstering the development of local infrastructure.

In a joint statement, the companies emphasized their commitment to supporting the country’s naval ambitions.

“We are committed to provide the best solution for the country’s defense and industrial needs by enabling the development of local skills and capabilities over the long term,” said Oliver Burkhard, CEO of tkMS. “Together with Fincantieri, we are offering a joint solution that is based on proven technology, a concrete industrial plan and a strong commitment to the Philippines as an industrial partner.”

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri, said the collaboration combines the expertise of two European shipbuilding leaders.

“This agreement sets the basis to jointly offer our complementary expertise and capabilities for an international program,” he said. “Fincantieri’s sound industrial presence and its wide know-how gained in similar programs with several foreign navies, together with thyssenkrupp Marine Systems’ well-proven submarine design, represent a unique value proposition for the Philippine Navy.”

Fincantieri has prior experience with the Philippines, having supported the country’s maritime defense through services related to offshore patrol vessels. The firm said the submarine program, if awarded, would be another step toward building a long-term partnership in support of the Philippine Navy’s modernization goals.

Both companies expressed readiness to assist in establishing infrastructure critical to submarine operations, including facilities for maintenance and training. This will include the construction of a new Philippine naval base capable of hosting and supporting the submarine fleet.

The announcement comes amid the Philippines’ broader push to strengthen its maritime defense capabilities in light of evolving regional security challenges.

— Edited by Daxim L. Lucas