Type 212A / 212CD
Type: submarine
Domain: sea
Country of Origin: Germany
Manufacturer: ThyssenKrupp Marine / Saab Kockums
First Deployed: 2005
Overview
World's first operational hydrogen fuel cell air-independent propulsion (AIP) submarine, representing a revolutionary advance in conventional submarine technology. The Type 212A displaces 1,830 tonnes submerged with Siemens PEM fuel cells providing 2-3 weeks of submerged endurance without snorkelling — drastically exceeding conventional diesel-electric submarines. Extremely quiet with advanced non-magnetic steel hull. Armed with 6x 533mm torpedo tubes for DM2A4 heavyweight torpedoes and provisions for IDAS submarine-launched anti-air missiles. Crew of 27. Six Type 212A serve the German Navy with two more for Italy. The Type 212CD (Common Design) is an enlarged evolution for Germany (2 boats) and Norway (4 boats) featuring enhanced combat system, additional weapons, and lithium-ion batteries alongside fuel cells.
Technical Specifications
| crew | ~27 |
|---|---|
| armament | 6× 533mm torpedo tubes (DM2A4 torpedoes, IDAS missiles) |
| 212cd_note | 212CD variant (with Norway) adds length, endurance, modern sensors |
| propulsion | Diesel-electric + Siemens PEM fuel cells (AIP) |
| displacement | ~1,830 tonnes (212A submerged) |
| manufacturer | ThyssenKrupp / Saab Kockums |
| aip_endurance | 3+ weeks submerged |
Operators
- Germany
- Norway
- Italy
Related sea Weapon Systems
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- Type 075 LHD - amphibious (China)
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