German naval giant TKMS and Israeli defence technology leader Elbit Systems have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at establishing a strategic framework for cooperation in the development, integration and commercialization of advanced naval defence solutions.

The agreement, announced on 18 May 2026 in Kiel, Germany, reflects the growing strategic and industrial cooperation between Germany and Israel in the defence and maritime security sectors. The collaboration will focus on combining the technological, operational and industrial capabilities of both companies in order to address evolving maritime defence challenges and support future naval requirements.

According to the two companies, the cooperation is intended to strengthen the development of next-generation naval technologies and reinforce bilateral defence ties at a time of increasing geopolitical instability and growing maritime security concerns.

Oliver Burkhard, CEO of TKMS, stated that the partnership demonstrates the importance of trusted international cooperation in responding to modern maritime security threats.

“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,” Burkhard said. “By combining our respective strengths, we are advancing technological capabilities while reinforcing the strategic ties between Germany and Israel.”

He added that close cooperation between “like-minded partners” is becoming increasingly important in ensuring stability and resilience in today’s complex security environment.

Elbit Systems President and CEO Bezhalel Machlis highlighted the strategic value of expanding cooperation with one of the world’s leading naval system providers.

“As we continue to expand our capabilities in the naval domain, I am proud to further deepen our collaboration with TKMS,” Machlis stated. “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.”

The MoU goes beyond a purely industrial partnership, reflecting broader strategic alignment between Germany and Israel based on shared security interests, mutual trust and long-term defence cooperation.

TKMS is among the world’s leading naval companies, specialising in submarines, naval surface vessels, maritime electronics and security technologies. The company employs more than 9,100 personnel across its shipyards and international operations, including facilities in Kiel, Wismar and Brazil.

Elbit Systems is a globally recognised defence technology company providing advanced solutions across multiple operational domains, including land, air, naval, cyber and intelligence systems.

The cooperation between TKMS and Elbit Systems is expected to contribute to the development of advanced maritime defence capabilities and further strengthen European-Israeli defence industrial cooperation amid increasing global security challenges.