German naval shipbuilder TKMS has secured a multi-billion-euro contract from Canada to build up to 12 submarines. The vessels will be constructed at the company's shipyards in Kiel and Wismar - two coastal towns in northern Germany - before being delivered to North America.

The deal is the largest submarine contract in the company's history - and many hope a foundation for tighter security cooperation. For TKMS, it is the third NATO partner who acquires the new 212 CD submarine after purchases for the German and Norwegian Navy.