TKMS and Cohere Advance AI for Canadian Patrol Submarines
The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project took a step toward digital modernization as thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Cohere signed a teaming agreement to develop AI-enabled capabilities for Canada’s future submarine fleet, according to an official company announcement.
The agreement brings together TKMS’s submarine design and systems integration expertise with Cohere’s secure, enterprise-focused artificial intelligence technologies, aligning with Canada’s broader naval modernization goals.
AI Integration for Next-Generation Submarine Operations
Under the agreement, TKMS and Cohere will collaborate on applying artificial intelligence to submarine-relevant use cases, including decision support, data analysis, and human-machine interaction, while adhering to defense-grade security and sovereignty requirements.
The companies emphasized that the AI solutions are intended to support crews rather than replace human decision-making, a growing priority among NATO and allied navies integrating AI into operational platforms.
TKMS stated the collaboration supports its vision of digitally enabled submarines, combining traditional naval engineering with software-driven capabilities to improve situational awareness and operational efficiency.
Supporting Canada’s Future Submarine Replacement Effort
The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project is expected to replace the Royal Canadian Navy’s aging Victoria-class submarines, with Ottawa seeking a modern, long-range, and survivable undersea capability for Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific operations.
While the teaming agreement does not guarantee contract selection, it positions TKMS and Cohere to offer AI-enhanced submarine solutions aligned with Canada’s emphasis on sovereign data control, interoperability, and long-term sustainment.
Cohere noted that its AI models are designed for secure, deployable environments, including defense and government applications where sensitive data handling is critical.
Growing Role of AI in Naval Modernization
The TKMS–Cohere agreement reflects a broader trend across allied naval forces, where artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in command systems, sensor fusion, maintenance planning, and training environments.
Defense industry analysts note that future submarines are likely to rely heavily on AI-assisted data processing to manage growing sensor loads while reducing cognitive burden on crews.
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