TKMS and Elbit Systems link up on naval defense solutions

May 19, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

German shipbuilder TKMS and Israeli defense company Elbit Systems have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a strategic framework agreement to explore opportunities for cooperation in the development, integration and commercialization of advanced naval defense solutions.

The collaboration leverages the complementary technological, operational, and industrial capabilities of both companies to address current and future maritime defense challenges.

“Our trusted international partnership with Elbit Systems once again underscores our commitment to working together to address the evolving challenges in the field of maritime security. By combining our respective strengths, we are advancing technological capabilities while reinforcing the strategic ties between Germany and Israel. In today’s complex security environment, close collaboration between like-minded partners is essential to ensuring stability and resilience,” said Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS.

Beyond an industrial partnership, the agreement reflects a broader strategic alignment between Germany and Israel. The aim is to strengthen long-term bilateral relations in order to contribute to a broader framework for international defense cooperation in an increasingly complex global environment.

“As we continue to expand our capabilities in the naval domain, I am proud to further deepen our collaboration with TKMS, a global leader in naval systems with a distinguished legacy of innovation, engineering excellence, and longstanding contribution to maritime security,” said Bezhalel Machlis, President and CEO of Elbit Systems.

“By combining the technological strengths and operational experience of both companies, we aim to deliver advanced solutions that address the evolving needs of naval forces while further strengthening the strategic partnership and close cooperation between Germany and Israel in support of regional and global security.”

To remind, in February this year, TKMS and Elbit Systems inaugurated a new production line in Israel to manufacture underwater structural components for submarines.