TKMS joins hands with E3 Lithium to work on Canadian Navy’s submarine program

April 8, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

German shipbuilder TKMS has signed a teaming agreement with Canadian lithium company E3 Lithium to establish a strategic framework for cooperation in support of Canada’s future submarine capabilities under the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP).

The cooperation aims to integrate Canadian critical minerals into the submarine supply chain, with potential benefits for both domestic industry and international export markets.

Specifically, under the agreement, TKMS and E3 Lithium will explore opportunities to leverage Canada’s lithium production for strategic applications. E3’s Clearwater Project, a direct lithium extraction development, is expected to produce up to 36,000 tonnes per year of battery-grade lithium at full capacity, supporting potential supply to German and other industrial clients.

E3 Lithium will bring its extensive expertise in lithium resource development, extraction technology, and processing, contributing to the creation of a robust supply chain that can support both Canada’s submarine program and potential international opportunities.

“The CPSP represents a cornerstone of Canada’s naval capability, and critical minerals are essential to the technology that powers tomorrow’s submarines,” said Thomas Keupp, Chief Sales Officer at TKMS.

“Through this agreement with E3 Lithium, we are not only securing access to a sustainable supply of lithium but also strengthening the industrial partnership between Germany and Canada. This cooperation reflects our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and long-term capability development.”

“Partnering with TKMS allows us to connect Canada’s critical minerals industry with strategic global markets while supporting a transformative national defense program,” said Chris Doornbos, CEO at E3 Lithium.

“This agreement is a strong step toward leveraging Canada’s lithium resources to create sustainable economic value, advance technology transfer, and strengthen industrial ties with Germany and allied nations.”

The teaming agreement also provides a foundation for exploring further cooperation on international projects that incorporate critical minerals into advanced technology platforms.

The partnership is the latest of the contracts TKMS signed for the Canadian future submarine program. The company recently also signed a teaming agreement with Dalhousie University and the University of British Columbia for strategic collaboration in support of Canada’s submarine program.