Produktionshalle von TKMS in Kiel
Foto: Axel Heimken / dpa
According to Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD), the German government is considering an entry into the Kiel submarine shipyard Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). Pistorius said, „We are considering it,“ during a visit to Kiel. However, the considerations have not yet been concluded. This process will take at least until the end of the year. The „Handelsblatt“ had previously reported on this.
The marine company belonging to the Essen-based industrial conglomerate Thyssenkrupp intends to become independent. TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard stated that this would be „a better way forward: for Thyssenkrupp, TKMS, our customers, Berlin, and thus for Germany.“ Several options are reportedly possible for a separation: the involvement of external investors (private equity), an initial public offering or partial IPO, and government intervention.
TKMS beschäftigt allein in Kiel derzeit rund 3100 Menschen und baut unter anderem U-Boote, Fregatten, Korvetten und Anlagen zur Bergung alter Munition. Der Chef der Gewerkschaft IG Metall Küste, Daniel Friedrich, hatte vergangene Woche gefordert: »Wir brauchen den Staat als Ankerinvestor und als starken Kunden.«
On Tuesday, the construction of new submarines for the German and Norwegian navies began at the shipyard with a solemn ceremony. Germany has initially ordered two new boats, while Norway has already ordered four. Germany has the option to purchase four to six more. Pistorius stated that there is no doubt about our desire for them. A decision will be made within the next one to two years.