German Navy (Deutsche Marine) Type 212cd
The German type 212cd submarine is the latest in a fleet of advanced diesel-electric or hydrogen fuel cell "air independent propelling" submarines. It can operate on either diesel or AIP power and is said to be 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. They are also regarded as being among the most modern non-nuclear submarines in the world. They can be powered by either hydrogen or diesel fuel cell AIP. This allows them to cruise for as long as three weeks without needing to surface and generate no exhaust heat.
These submarines are designed to be highly versatile. They can carry 6 533 mm tubes and can fire any heavy weight 21-inch or heavier torpedos. They also have a unique "X" configuration to the after-planes, which allows them to manoeuvre in shallow water while retaining their ability to attack surface ships and submarines.
The German Navy's original design of the type 212 was based on the Type-039. It is a stepped conning tower with a forward rise that reduces its acoustic signature. It featured a double-deck maning arrangement, which was redesigned in order to offer more space for living and greater weapon loading.
However, these improvements were not enough to keep the Type-212A competitive with other modern diesel-electric submarines. German Navy developed a Type 212A "G" version of the Type 212A to reduce its acoustic signature. The boat's sonar signature is reduced by the design which incorporates a larger outer hull.
The Type 212A submarine has improved over its predecessors since its 2006 introduction. In addition to incorporating more powerful and effective weapons, the 212A also features an improved command and control system, more advanced communications systems and increased reconnaissance capabilities.
Currently, six Type 212A submarines are in operation by the German Bundesmarine. These submarines, which offer higher levels of stealth as well as a longer operational life, are some of the most modern in the entire world.
These submarines can transport 6 forward torpedo tube and have an "X" configuration that allows for them to be repositioned to fire either way. This provides unmatched shallow water maneuverability. They can also be equipped with heavy-weight 21" torpedos as well as various anti-ship weapons, such as naval mines or other types.
Although it is unclear how many Type 212s will be used by the German Navy in the future, plans are being made to replace some older boats with more modern 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 arrive in 2023 and 20, respectively, to the German or Norwegian navies. After receiving approval from both their parliaments, the Norwegian as well as German governments, they are expected to sign this summer's contract for the construction of these submarines.