KIEL/ESSEN (dpa-AFX) – Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) believes that future independence is essential. “We are currently examining how the potential of Marine Systems can best be realized and which is the most valuable option for the future of the company and for our customers,” said shipyard boss Oliver Burkhard on Wednesday at the balance sheet press conference of the parent company Thyssenkrupp . The aim must be for the new company to be under German management. However, there is still no result.

Burkhard sees additional growth opportunities for the Kiel shipyard as a result of growing global demand and the increase in defense budgets. “We will continue to strive for an independent positioning so that Marine Systems can make the most of these growth opportunities and develop in the best possible way.” There will be tangible benefits for thyssenkrupp, the shipyard itself, but also for Germany.

Germany’s strength lies in both underwater and surface shipbuilding, said Burkhard. “With Marine Systems, we are the only ones who have both under one roof in Germany – including electronics.” A possible state investment is also being explored, as Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) explained during a visit to the shipyard. “Among other things, such a state involvement could help to stabilize conditions, especially in Europe,” said Burkhard.

According to reports, several options appear possible: the entry of private equity investors, an initial public offering or partial public offering and/or an entry by the state. The company currently employs around 3100 people in Kiel alone. The first welding work on the front section of the pressure hull of the first of four submarines for Norway began there in mid-September. Germany has so far ordered two of the identical boats. According to the German Press Agency, the total order value for all six boats is 5.5 billion euros./akl/DP/zb