Cohere Partners with ThyssenKrupp to Integrate AI in Canadian Submarines

Cohere, a Toronto-based AI scaleup, has entered a strategic partnership with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) to explore the integration of its advanced artificial intelligence technology into Canada’s submarine fleet. This collaboration aims to support the Canadian Patrol Submarine Program (CPSP), a federal initiative focused on acquiring twelve new submarines.

The partnership comes as part of Canada’s broader effort to modernize its naval capabilities. TKMS was shortlisted for the CPSP contract alongside Hanwha Ocean, a South Korean firm, back in August 2025. Currently, the Canadian government is engaged in extensive discussions with both companies to further advance the procurement process.

Focus on Decision-Making and Training

TKMS has indicated that the collaboration aligns with Canada’s future submarine requirements and modernization goals. The project will concentrate on research and prototyping to assess how Cohere’s AI models can enhance decision-making workflows and efficiently manage information onboard submarines. This includes applications for training environments and secure naval interfaces, all while functioning at depths of up to 500 meters below sea level.

Dave Ferris, Cohere’s Vice President for the Americas and Global Public Sector, emphasized the significance of submarines as “the ultimate high-stakes workplace.” He stated that Cohere’s technology is designed to meet the CPSP’s demands for “precision, security, and streamlined operations, while reducing cognitive load” on personnel.

Cohere, founded in 2019 by former researchers from Google, specializes in developing large language models (LLMs) that power various AI applications, including chatbots for enterprises and government agencies. In a competitive landscape dominated by larger American LLM developers, Cohere aims to distinguish itself with a focus on enterprise solutions and cybersecurity.

Recent Developments and Government Investment

This partnership with TKMS follows another recent agreement Cohere signed with Thales Canada. Under this arrangement, Thales will employ Cohere’s services to support its operation and maintenance contracts with the Department of National Defence. Additionally, Cohere has secured its own contract with the federal government to “transform” public sector operations through AI technology.

As Canada continues to enhance its defense capabilities, both private investment and government spending in the defense sector are on the rise. The federal government has committed to allocating five percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) to defense by 2035 and has pledged $81.8 billion over five years to “rebuild, rearm, and reinvest” in the Canadian Armed Forces, though this figure excludes funding for the CPSP.

This collaboration not only represents a significant step for Cohere in the defense technology sector but also highlights Canada’s commitment to advancing its military capabilities while leveraging cutting-edge AI technology.