German Navy (Deutsche Marine) Type 212cd
The type 212cd submarine is the latest in Germany's fleet of advanced diesel-electric and hydrogen fuel cell "air independent propulsion" submarines. It can run on either AIP or diesel and is described as being extremely quiet, vibration free and virtually undetectable.
First built by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft for the German Navy, these boats are characterized by a high degree of stealthiness. These submarines are also considered one of the most advanced non-nuclear ones in the world. They can run on either diesel fuel or hydrogen fuel cells AIP, so they can cruise for up three weeks without having to surface.
These submarines can carry six 533mm torpedo tubes, and can fire heavy 21-inch torpedos or missiles. The after-planes have an "X" configuration that allows them to maneuver in shallow water and still be able to attack submarines and surface ships.
The Type 039 was the basis for the German Navy’s original design of type 212. It is a stepped conning tower with a forward rise that reduces its acoustic signature. It also had a double deck manning arrangement. The design was changed to improve living space and weapon loading.
These improvements did not make the Type-212A more competitive with other modern diesel-electric boats. German Navy chose to develop a Type 212A G, a modified version of the Type 212A. This was to further reduce the submarine's acoustic signature. The boat's sonar signature is reduced by the design which incorporates a larger outer hull.
Since its introduction into service in 2006, the Type 212A has evolved to become a more advanced and versatile submarine than its predecessors. The Type 212A includes more powerful, effective weapons as well as a superior command and controlling system, advanced communications systems, increased reconnaissance capabilities, and a more advanced communication system.
Currently, six Type 212A submarines are in operation by the German Bundesmarine. These submarines offer a greater level of stealth and a more long-lasting operating life than other boats.
These submarines are able to carry 6 forward torpedo tubes and have a unique "X" configuration that allows them to be repositioned to fire from either side, providing unparalleled shallow water manouverability. They can also be equipped with heavy-weight 21" torpedos as well as various anti-ship weapons, such as naval mines or other types.
While it is not clear how many Type 212s the German Navy will operate in the future, there are plans to replace some of these older boats with newer versions. Thyssenkrupp Marine System will construct the Type 212CD submarine for the German and Norwegian navys. It is similar to the 212A in appearance, but it is larger and features more powerful weapons.
The 212CD submarines will be delivered to both the German and Norwegian navies, in 2023 and 2029. After both countries have received parliamentary approval, the Norwegian and German governments will sign the contract to construct these submarines.