Internationale ontwikkelingen op onderzeebootgebied.

[Harald]

Saudi Arabia continues talks with Fincantieri on Todaro-class to acquire first submarines.
https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/navy-news/2026/saudi-arabia-continues-talks-with-fincantieri-on-todaro-class-to-acquire-first-submarines

Saudi Arabia remains in talks with Fincantieri to purchase Todaro-class/Type 212A diesel-electric attack submarines, as part of a long-standing effort to acquire its first-ever submarine force.

As reported by Tactical Report on January 21, 2026, Saudi Arabia continues to discuss with Italy's Fincantieri regarding Todaro-class submarines, also known as the Type 212A. Saudi Arabia currently operates no submarines, meaning that any acquisition would involve the creation of a new naval force branch and require extended timelines for training, infrastructure, and integration.

The Type 212A submarine, also known as the Todaro-class, was created in the mid-1990s as a joint program between Germany and Italy to replace aging submarines such as the German Type 206 and the Italian Sauro-class.

The interest fits into a longer timeline in which Saudi Arabia has examined acquiring submarines since at least the mid-2010s, without concluding a procurement. Saudi Arabia currently operates no submarines, which means any acquisition would represent the creation of a new force branch rather than a fleet replacement. The Todaro-class designation is generally used to describe export-oriented concepts derived from German Type-212A design principles, rather than a formally standardized class in Saudi service. These discussions reflect an assessment that submarines would add intelligence, deterrence, and sea-denial options in the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. They also highlight the scale of institutional, technical, and training changes required to absorb such a capability. The issue, therefore, extends beyond hull selection, as the transition would likely take many years from contract signature to initial operational capability.

The Type 212A submarine, also known as the Todaro-class, was created in the mid-1990s as a joint program between Germany and Italy to replace aging submarines such as the German Type 206 and the Italian Sauro-class. Development work formally began in 1996, with contracts for the first batch signed in 1998. The program aimed to introduce a new generation of diesel-electric submarines optimized for post-Cold War missions, including coastal surveillance, intelligence collection, and sea denial in shallow waters. The first unit, the U-31, was launched in 2002 and entered service with the German Navy in 2005, followed by Italian units from 2006 onward. Over time, the Type 212A became the technical basis for several variants, such as the Type 212CD (Common Design), jointly developed by Germany and Norway, the Type 214, which replaces the non-magnetic steel hull with conventional steel to ease export constraints and slightly increases size and endurance, and the Type 209NG, which incorporate several technologies influenced by the Type 212.

Production of the Type 212A has been spread over more than two decades, reflecting incremental procurement and upgrades rather than a single large batch. Germany initially ordered four submarines, followed by additional boats and modernization-related contracts signed in the 2010s and early 2020s, bringing the total planned German fleet to six units. Italy ordered four submarines, with construction shared between Germany's Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft GmbH (HDW) and Italy's Fincantieri. Production cycles for each boat typically span 5 to 7 years; the construction phase from keel laying to launch usually takes about 30 to 36 months, followed by 12 to 24 months of outfitting, harbor trials, sea trials, and crew training before formal acceptance. When ordered as part of a multi-boat batch, later units can be delivered slightly faster, but even then, total timelines rarely fall below about 5 years per hull.

These vessels are the world's first air-independent submarines whose underwater propulsion system is based on hydrogen fuel cells, namely Siemens' proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC). The Type 212A/Todaro-class submarine uses a non-magnetic austenitic steel pressure hull specifically selected to reduce susceptibility to magnetic anomaly detection systems and influence mines, a feature that directly differentiates it from export variants such as the Type 214. Acoustic signature reduction is achieved through raft-mounted diesel generators, extensive elastic isolation of machinery, and the use of a seven-bladed low-cavitation propeller optimized for low-speed submerged operations. Hull coatings include anechoic tiles designed to absorb active sonar emissions and reduce self-noise transmission, while the infrared signature reduction is supported indirectly by minimizing snorkeling frequency and limiting exhaust plume exposure.

The submarine's propulsion combines MTU diesel generators, large-capacity lead-acid battery banks, and a Siemens-developed polymer electrolyte membrane hydrogen fuel-cell air-independent propulsion (AIP) system, for a maximum submerged speed of about 20 knots. This AIP architecture enables several weeks of submerged operations at low speed without atmospheric oxygen intake, as the fuel cell system generates its electrical power without combustion. For the Type 212A, the total range on diesel power with snorkeling is typically cited in the 8,000 to 12,000-kilometer range at economical speed. The internal layout emphasizes automation through integrated machinery control systems and centralized monitoring, allowing normal operations with a crew of approximately 25 to 35 personnel, including officers, operators, and technical specialists.

The weapons configuration of the Type 212A is centered on six 533 mm torpedo tubes located in the bow. These tubes are compatible with 12 to 13 heavyweight torpedoes used for both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, or a mixed load of torpedoes and naval mines, depending on mission requirements. The combat system of the Type 212A/Todaro-class emphasizes passive engagement, relying on sonar data rather than active emissions to support targeting. German and Italian vessels are also equipped with inertial navigation systems combined with GPS updates when at periscope depth. Depth-keeping and maneuvering systems are tuned for precise control at low speed and low depth, supporting operations close to the seabed. Survivability is enhanced through compartmentalization, automated damage control systems, and redundant electrical distribution. Acoustic discretion is maintained through speed limits, machinery isolation thresholds, and energy-management profiles embedded in the control software.

Regarding dimensions and displacement, the Type 212A has an overall length of 56 meters, a beam of 7 meters, and a draught close to 6.4 meters. Submerged displacement is typically between 1,500 and 1,900 tonnes, depending on national configuration and onboard equipment fit, while surfaced displacement is lower, generally cited in the 1,450-tonne range. For Saudi Arabia, the Todaro-class would introduce a credible submarine threat against high-value naval units operating in regional waters. As a reduced snorkeling frequency lowers exposure to detection by aircraft and surface ships, this would greatly enhance the Royal Saudi Naval Forces' long-duration patrols near chokepoints, sea lanes, or areas of strategic interest, which is particularly relevant in the Middle East, where air and surface surveillance density is high.

[Harald]

Taiwan Navy Begins Dive Tests of Hai Kun First Indigenous Attack Submarine.

Taiwan's Republic of China Navy, on January 26, 2026, began the first controlled dive tests of the Hai Kun submarine, hull number SS-711, departing Kaohsiung harbor for submerged operations. The milestone advances Taiwan's Indigenous Defense Submarine program toward a planned mid-2026 delivery after overcoming earlier technical delays.

The Republic of China Navy has initiated the first controlled dive tests of its domestically built Hai Kun submarine, marking a critical transition from surface evaluations to underwater operations, according to reporting by Taiwan's Liberty Times. The submarine, designated SS-711, departed Kaohsiung harbor on January 26 and entered a new phase of sea trials following months of harbor, floating, and surface testing conducted throughout 2025 under Taiwan's Indigenous Defense Submarine program.

Hai Kun's entry into underwater testing unfolds under close public and institutional scrutiny. Built by CSBC Corporation, the submarine represents the first time Taiwan designs and constructs a modern attack submarine entirely on its own territory. Observers along the Kaohsiung waterfront note the presence of additional test personnel aboard during departure, a visible reminder of the cautious approach adopted for initial dives. The January trial confirms that the vessel has moved beyond static and surface evaluations into controlled submersion, a step that validates hull integrity, ballast systems, and core safety procedures before deeper and longer profiles are attempted.

The program's timeline reflects the complexity of establishing a sovereign submarine capability. Hai Kun is launched in 2024 and begins land based testing at Kaohsiung port in July of that year. Sea trials, initially expected earlier, face interruptions. In September 2024, Taiwanese media report a main engine failure during trials, traced to a rupture in internal piping systems. Repairs follow, and the submarine resumes departure trials in June 2025 before completing floating tests in November. These setbacks, while costly in time, provide critical feedback for a shipyard and navy navigating unfamiliar technical ground.

Hai Kun is a conventionally powered diesel electric submarine designed for sustained operations in the shallow and acoustically complex waters surrounding Taiwan. Open source estimates place its submerged displacement in the 2500 to 3000 ton range, with a hull length of roughly 80 meters, though official figures remain undisclosed and should be treated cautiously. Propulsion relies on diesel generators charging battery banks, enabling silent electric running when submerged. This architecture favors acoustic discretion but imposes constraints on endurance, as periodic snorkeling is required to recharge batteries in the absence of a confirmed air independent propulsion system for the lead boat.

Sensor and systems integration remains central to the current test phase. Hai Kun reportedly carries an indigenous combat management system connected to a sonar suite that includes bow mounted arrays and flank sensors optimized for passive detection. One of the key causes of delay, cited by sources close to the program, involves difficulties linking the integrated platform management system with onboard sensors. According to Taiwanese media, these issues are resolved with assistance from foreign engineers, restoring stable signal connections across the submarine's internal networks. The identities of these specialists are not disclosed, reflecting the political sensitivity surrounding external support.

Weapons integration is expected to follow progressively once submerged handling and safety envelopes are validated. Taiwanese officials have previously indicated that Hai Kun is designed to deploy heavyweight torpedoes for both anti submarine and anti surface warfare. While specific models are not confirmed publicly, such weapons typically offer engagement ranges measured in tens of kilometers and rely on wire guidance and active or passive homing in terminal phases. Their effective use depends as much on sensor performance and crew proficiency as on raw specifications, reinforcing the importance of the ongoing trials.

Hai Kun is tailored to exploit the geography of the Taiwan Strait and adjacent seas. Diesel electric submarines operating on battery power can achieve very low acoustic signatures, particularly in littoral waters saturated with background noise from commercial shipping. In such conditions, a single submarine can impose disproportionate demands on an adversary's anti submarine forces, forcing surface combatants, helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft to devote time and resources to detection and tracking. While endurance and speed are limited compared to nuclear powered submarines, careful mission planning allows Hai Kun to threaten sea lines of communication and high value naval units at critical moments.

Beyond the platform itself, the start of dive testing carries broader implications. Hai Kun is the lead boat of a planned class of eight indigenous submarines that Taiwan aims to build and deploy by 2027. For Taipei, the program is less about parity and more about survivability and uncertainty, reinforcing an undersea deterrent intended to complicate any hostile naval operation. Regionally, the trials are closely watched as an indicator of Taiwan's ability to sustain advanced defense production under diplomatic pressure. As undersea capabilities continue to shape the military balance in East Asia, Hai Kun's progression from surface trials to submerged testing adds a new layer to the strategic calculus surrounding security and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

https://www.armyrecognition.com/news/navy-news/2026/taiwan-navy-begins-dive-tests-of-hai-kun-first-indigenous-attack-submarine

[Huzaar1]

Het budget gaat zo aanzienlijk stijgen dat nucleaire subs in beeld komen. Kost evenveel als de LCF vervanging maar levert je zo veel meer op.

[Lynxian]

Dat haalt wel een een deel van de argumentatie onderuit die richting Saab-Damen gebruikt is dat NL niet meer voor 100% een OZB kan bouwen.

Een tweekamp kan ook nog steeds: Fransen bouwen conventioneel, Saab-Damen bouwt de SSN in Nederland onder licentie. Kan me wel zo voorstellen dat de Fransen daar 3x niks voor voelen.

[jurrien visser (JuVi op Twitter)]

We kunnen ze ook laten bouwen bij een Nederlandse werf onder licentie Gebeurd bij de Brazillianen ook.

Dat haalt wel een een deel van de argumentatie onderuit die richting Saab-Damen gebruikt is dat NL niet meer voor 100% een OZB kan bouwen.

[Parera]

Het zou wat mij betreft een, voor de verandering, prima Frans initiatief zijn al vrees ik dat het idee zal botsen met nieuw te bouwen Franse SSBN's (al geldt hier ook, waar een wil is, is een weg)

We kunnen ze ook laten bouwen bij een Nederlandse werf onder licentie Gebeurd bij de Brazillianen ook.

[jurrien visser (JuVi op Twitter)]

Vrees dat dit schip is vertrokken, alleen als de Fransen dit voorstellen komen we in die richting.

Het zou wat mij betreft een, voor de verandering, prima Frans initiatief zijn al vrees ik dat het idee zal botsen met nieuw te bouwen Franse SSBN's (al geldt hier ook, waar een wil is, is een weg)

[Huzaar1]

Vrees dat dit schip is vertrokken, alleen als de Fransen dit voorstellen komen we in die richting.

[jurrien visser (JuVi op Twitter)]

Zoiets, de huidige order is gewoon niet meer echt geschikt.

Met 3.5% van het bbp (ruim boven 1.3 biljoen euro in 2026) voor defensie zouden 6-8 SSN's met alle toeters en bellen geen enkel probleem moeten zijn, het zou geen roofbouw plegen op alle andere KMD's.

[Huzaar1]

Als we diesels kunnen annuleren en de order ombouwen tot minimaal 6 SSN's dan zal ik een tevreden reactie geven.

Uiteraard moet Frankeijk z'n Horizon klasse dan, zonder gezeik, vervangen door FuAD.

Zoiets, de huidige order is gewoon niet meer echt geschikt.

[jurrien visser (JuVi op Twitter)]

Als NL zou ik eerder 4 nuclear subs hebben aangeschaft dan deze conventionele in drze wereld.

Als we diesels kunnen annuleren en de order ombouwen tot minimaal 6 SSN's dan zal ik een tevreden reactie geven.

Uiteraard moet Frankeijk z'n Horizon klasse dan, zonder gezeik, vervangen door FuAD.

[Parera]

Ik stel voor dar NL haar SSK order uitbreidt met 4 SSN's, dat zou een zeer kansrijke- en serieuze slagkachtuitbreiding betekenen met slechts een 'handjevol' exta personeel

Ja als dat nog zou kunnen zou het geweldig zijn, zo niet doe dan maar de 4 huidig bestelde boten aanvullen met 2 a 4 SSN's. De Brazilianen doen hetzelfde met hun Riachuelo klasse (gebaseerd op Scorpene serie) waarbij er 4 conventioneel zijn + 1 SSN. Ook deze boten worden geleverd door het Franse Naval Group, dus export van nucleaire boten is helemaal geen taboe in Parijs.

Als NL zou ik eerder 4 nuclear subs hebben aangeschaft dan deze conventionele in drze wereld.

De wereld was bij het opstellen van het pakket van eisen natuurlijk een stuk positiever dan we dat nu zien.
Maar een vervolg order zou hierbij kunnen helpen, ik denk dat dat ook een mooi begin is door als extra 2 nucleaire Orka's aan te schaffen.

[Huzaar1]

Ik stel voor dar NL haar SSK order uitbreidt met 4 SSN's, dat zou een zeer kansrijke- en serieuze slagkachtuitbreiding betekenen met slechts een 'handjevol' exta personeel

Als NL zou ik eerder 4 nuclear subs hebben aangeschaft dan deze conventionele in drze wereld.

[jurrien visser (JuVi op Twitter)]

Frankrijk versnelt leveringsschema voor kernonderzeeërs: zouden een jaar vroeger in dienst worden genomen

Ik stel voor dar NL haar SSK order uitbreidt met 4 SSN's, dat zou een zeer kansrijke- en serieuze slagkachtuitbreiding betekenen met slechts een 'handjevol' exta personeel

[Harald]

Frankrijk versnelt leveringsschema voor kernonderzeeërs: zouden een jaar vroeger in dienst worden genomen

Business AM https://share.google/OCx3P4AYIV9lkn5Qw

- Het Franse programma voor kernonderzeeërs van de Barracuda-klasse kan een jaar eerder dan gepland worden afgerond.
- De verbeterde efficiëntie bij de scheepswerf in Cherbourg zorgt voor deze versnelde leveringstermijn.
- Door het programma vroegtijdig af te ronden, versterkt Frankrijk zijn positie als Europa's leidende onderzeese macht.

Frankrijk zou de oplevering van de nucleaire onderzeeërs van de Barracuda-klasse met een jaar kunnen versnellen, zodat de laatste eenheid al in 2029 in plaats van in 2030 in dienst kan treden. Dat ligt aan de verhoogde efficiëntie van de scheepswerf van Naval Group in Cherbourg, één van de veiligste scheepsbouwfaciliteiten van Europa.

Het Barracuda-programma, ook bekend als de Suffren-klasse, heeft tot doel de verouderde onderzeeërs van de Rubis-klasse in Frankrijk te vervangen en vormt een aanzienlijke vooruitgang van de onderzeevloot sinds de Koude Oorlog. Het programma vordert gestaag en drie onderzeeërs zijn al operationeel: de SNA Suffren, die in 2022 in gebruik is genomen, de Duguay-Trouin in 2024 en de Tourville in 2025.

Positie van Frankrijk versterken
In december 2025 bereikten de teams een cruciale mijlpaal door de kernreactor van de vierde onderzeeër, De Grasse, met succes op te starten. Dit betekent dat de oplevering op handen is. Volgens de herziene plannen zal De Grasse naar verwachting in 2026 worden opgeleverd, gevolgd door Rubis rond 2028 en Casabianca kort daarna.

De verbeterde productiestroom op de scheepswerf van Naval Group in Cherbourg en een betere coördinatie met de toeleveringsketen voor nucleaire voortstuwing zijn belangrijke factoren geweest voor de versnelde planning. De vroege voltooiing van het Barracuda-programma zou de positie van Frankrijk als Europa's leidende onderzeese oorlogsmacht versterken te midden van toenemende geopolitieke spanningen.

Uitfasering
Bovendien biedt het zekerheid nu Frankrijk zijn verouderde onderzeeërs van de Rubis-klasse, uitfaseert. Deze prestatie staat in contrast met de recente vertragingen bij veel Europese marineprogramma's en onderstreept de expertise van Naval Group in de ontwikkeling van complexe nucleair aangedreven platforms.