Europe is diving deeper, literally, into defence readiness as nations across the continent scale up investments in next-generation submarines. In a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, underwater warfare capabilities are now at the heart of European security planning, with Germany leading a notable resurgence in submarine defence.
Germany’s New Submarine Deal: A Baltic Game Changer
On 12 March 2025, Germany announced a major step in modernising its submarine fleet, unveiling a significant expansion of its partnership with Norway for the Type 212CD submarines, developed by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). This new class, CD standing for “Common Design”, combines stealth technology with extended underwater endurance, thanks to air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems. These submarines are specifically engineered for operations in the Baltic Sea, a hotspot of rising NATO-Russia tensions.
Germany has committed to two additional vessels, adding to the two already on order, while Norway remains committed to its own procurement of four units. These platforms are designed to operate in shallow and contested waters, perfectly suiting Europe’s evolving maritime theatre.
Sweden and the A26 Blekinge Class
Meanwhile, Sweden’s Saab Kockums continues development of the A26 Blekinge-class submarines—also boasting AIP capabilities and modular designs for intelligence-gathering, special operations, and mine-laying missions. These subs are not only a crucial part of Sweden’s own modernisation, but they are also drawing interest from NATO allies seeking agile and stealthy sub-surface platforms.
As Sweden’s NATO membership solidifies, the A26 class is expected to play a more central role in Nordic maritime defence strategy.
France and the Barracuda-Class Evolution
France continues to assert its naval autonomy with the progressive deployment of its Barracuda-class nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), developed by Naval Group. As of early 2025, three out of six planned Barracuda submarines have been delivered to the French Navy, with FS Suffren, FS Duguay-Trouin, and FS Tourville already operational. The next unit, FS De Grasse, is undergoing sea trials, with delivery expected by late 2025.
These submarines, replacing the ageing Rubis-class, are equipped with advanced sonar suites, improved acoustic discretion, and the capability to launch MdCN (Missile de Croisière Naval) cruise missiles, significantly extending France’s strike reach. The Barracuda class also integrates cutting-edge combat management systems and enhanced special forces deployment capabilities, positioning it as one of Europe’s most formidable undersea assets.
France’s nuclear propulsion capability sets it apart within the European submarine landscape, offering unmatched endurance and strategic flexibility. Additionally, Paris maintains its SNLE (Sous-marin Nucléaire Lanceur d’Engins) fleet, the cornerstone of its nuclear deterrent, which remains operational and continuously modernised under the Triomphant-class SSBN programme, with preliminary planning already under way for its next-generation successor, set to begin entering service in the 2030s.
France’s strategic posture underlines its commitment to sovereign defence capabilities, and its growing emphasis on interoperability with NATO partners, particularly in joint exercises in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, cements its role as a key player in Europe’s expanding underwater defence architecture.
Italy and the U212 NFS Programme
Italy, too, is reinforcing its sub-surface presence with the U212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) project. Spearheaded by Fincantieri, this initiative builds upon the German-Italian U212 platform but integrates a more Italianised suite of systems. The first U212 NFS vessel is due for delivery by 2027, aimed at replacing older Sauro-class submarines.
NATO’s Undersea Coordination
NATO has also been pushing for enhanced interoperability across European submarine fleets. The Alliance’s Submarine Command (COMSUBNATO), based in the UK, has intensified joint training exercises and data-sharing protocols. With Russia expanding its own underwater capabilities in the Arctic and North Atlantic, NATO’s undersea deterrence is now a top priority.
Strategic Implications
Submarines are not just instruments of defence, they are tools of strategic messaging. Their presence (or their chilling silence beneath the surface) signals resolve without overt escalation. In the current European context, submarine investments reflect more than technological ambition, they’re a direct response to an increasingly multipolar and insecure world.
As defence budgets rise across the continent, it’s evident that Europe is no longer treating undersea warfare as an afterthought. It’s becoming one of the continent’s most vital defence frontiers.
Sources:
DefenseNews, Germany triples submarine order to six boats in joint buy with Norway
