Solid economy for German shipbuilding
The German shipbuilding industry looks back on a strong 2025. The German Shipbuilding and Ocean Industries Association (VSM) sees the sector well positioned but warns of geopolitical risks.
An early highlight was the takeover of the FSG and Nobiskrug shipyards by Rönner and Lürssen just six weeks after insolvency. “We can finally look ahead again,” the association said, stressing the continued need for every dock and slipway. In Flensburg, work on the ferry SeaRoad I quickly resumed, and the ship was launched in November for delivery in July 2026.
Record orders for newbuilds
VSM reported a historic high in newbuilding orders: by May 2025, civilian orders totaled €10.7 billion. Strong demand in repair work, naval shipbuilding, and global shipbuilding further supported the industry.
Following MAN Energy Solutions’ rebrand to Everllence, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems became TKMS, later achieving a successful IPO and joining the M‑DAX. With a record order book, TKMS is expanding its Wismar site. Rheinmetall’s announced takeover of NVL added momentum to naval shipbuilding, while debates over the frigate 126 contract continued.
Meyer Werft secures major project
A major €10 billion order for Meyer Werft, presented in Berlin shortly before Christmas, was also highlighted. It will be counted in VSM’s statistics once the final contract is signed in 2026, marking a potential turnaround for the Papenburg yard.
In 2026, VSM looks ahead to the National Maritime Conference in May and the SMM in Hamburg in September, though Marinetec China may share the status of “world’s leading trade fair.” Its impressive scope, combined with a concurrent large-scale Chinese naval maneuver, underscored ongoing geopolitical tension.
Geopolitical pressures
VSM calls 2025 “a year of geopolitical impositions,” citing Russia’s continued aggression, China’s expanding global ambitions, and the unreliability of the U.S. under the Trump administration, which it says has rejected a rules‑based order. Despite this, suitable political responses remain lacking.
The association concludes that the industry must help provide solutions. Unlike other sectors, Germany does not lag behind China in shipbuilding technology. With Germany having produced far more ship tonnage than the U.S. in recent years, VSM believes the country can secure technological sovereignty with comparatively modest investment.
Entering 2026, the association expresses confidence: business is strong, customers value German expertise, and the industry aims to support Germany’s needed economic momentum.
Link to full article: https://hansa.news/solid-economy-for-german-shipbuilding/
By courtesy of:
