Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, Ulstein Verft LOI Strengthens Norwegian Industrial Cooperation
GERMANY’S thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tKMS) and Norwegian shipyard Ulstein Verft have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) at the Undersea Defence Technology (UDT) exhibition in Oslo, Norway. It marks a significant step towards enhanced industrial cooperation between Germany and Norway and reaffirms tKMS’ dedication to fostering long-term cooperation and supporting Norway’s maritime defence capabilities.
The agreement outlines that, in the event of a contract award for the next Norwegian frigate programme, substantial value creation will take place in Norway. It also underscores Team Germany’s commitment to partnering with Norwegian shipbuilders to ensure local expertise and economic benefits. Head of tKMS Product Sales & Product Strategy Joachim Wacker and Ulstein Verft’s Managing Director Lars Lühr Olsen highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership and the advantages for Norway’s shipbuilding sector.
Olsen said,”Ulstein and tKMS share a strong tradition of innovation and excellence in shipbuilding. By joining forces, we are combining our expertise to deliver state of-the-art naval solutions while strengthening Norway’s industrial capabilities. At the same time, Ulstein will continue its commercial shipbuilding activities, leveraging our strategic location along the Norwegian coast. We are excited about the opportunity to build a longterm partnership that benefits both companies and nations.”
Wacker added, “This agreement is a milestone in our commitment to the Norwegian industry. Ulstein is a
world-class shipbuilder with deep roots in Norway, and together, we will create advanced and highly capable frigates that meet the needs of the Royal Norwegian Navy. We look forward to a successful cooperation that will extend far beyond this project.”
A candidate for the Royal Nowegian Navy’s 2024 Fleet Plan, tKMS’ F127 frigate is based on the proven MEKO A-400 design used in several different frigate classes built at yards around the world. tKMS is already involved with the Royal Norwegian Navy in the construction of 212CD submarines together with Germany.-tkms/adj/dl (Pix:ULSTEIN)