Canadian Submarine Project: Finkl Steel – Sorel and TKMS announce partnership
As part of the Canadian Submarine Project, German company ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Finkl Steel – Sorel, a member of Swiss Steel Group, have entered into a partnership to explore potential collaboration within a future Canadian supply chain. The agreement is conditional upon TKMS being selected by the Government of Canada to deliver the program.
The Canadian Submarine Project aims to renew the Royal Canadian Navy’s submarine fleet and represents one of the country’s largest defence procurement initiatives.
A delegation from TKMS visited the Sorel facility on March 20, formalizing the partnership. This collaboration could eventually enable the St-Joseph-de-Sorel facility to contribute to the supply chain supporting the Canadian Submarine Project.
Finkl Steel – Sorel has recognized expertise in specialty steel forging and metallurgical engineering. The partnership opens the door to the development of new metallurgical capabilities, including the introduction of new steel grades and advanced manufacturing processes.
These developments could help diversify the company’s product offering, strengthen its position in the defence and maritime transportation sectors, and support industrial innovation in Quebec.
The project could also help secure existing jobs at the St-Joseph-de-Sorel facility while supporting the creation of new specialized positions related to the integration of new technologies and manufacturing processes. Over time, these advancements could also benefit other industrial sectors.
“The Canadian Submarine Project represents an important opportunity to strengthen the country’s industrial base. For Finkl Steel – Sorel, this partnership with TKMS allows us to leverage our metallurgical expertise and contribute to the development of a strong and sustainable Canadian defence supply chain.”
Louis-Philippe Lapierre-Boire
Chief Operating Officer
Finkl Steel – Sorel
Originally built to support the war effort in the 1940s, the St-Joseph-de-Sorel industrial site is once again reconnecting with a strategic role in defence and advanced technologies. Already active in the manufacturing of components for the maritime industry, the company aims to continue developing its expertise while contributing to strengthening Canada’s defence supply chain.
Industrial companies in the Sorel-Tracy region possess recognized expertise in specialized manufacturing sectors. Développement économique Pierre-De Saurel works closely with these businesses to support their growth and to encourage their participation in major industrial projects, including those aligned with Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy
Julie Gagnon, General Manager, Développement économique Pierre-De Saurel
“For generations, our region has developed strong and respected manufacturing expertise. The participation of a company like Finkl Steel – Sorel in discussions around a major strategic project is a source of great pride for our community. It is clear evidence that our local expertise stands out and that it is crucial to continue supporting our industry.”
Jean-Bernard Émond
Member of the National Assembly for Richelieu
About Finkl Steel – Sorel
Finkl Steel – Sorel (Sorel Forge) is specialized in steel forging and metallurgical engineering and is based in Quebec, Canada. As part of Swiss Steel Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of specialty long steel products, the site focuses on high-performance forged components for critical applications in sectors such as aerospace, energy, transportation and defence.
With its advanced metallurgical expertise and integrated manufacturing capabilities, Sorel Forge supports demanding applications where material performance, reliability and safety are essential – serving customers across international markets.
