US neighbor’s hydrogen reactor tech could enter German-led submarine production

Canada’s next-generation submarine program could also become a launchpad for clean manufacturing technology. GH Power said it is advancing discussions with German naval builder TKMS after Canada selected the company as the preferred supplier for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP). The partnership could eventually bring GH Power’s modular reactor technology into Canada’s defense manufacturing ecosystem if future agreements move forward. Reactor technology evaluated TKMS and GH Power have been working under a previously signed non-binding memorandum of understanding that explores how the Canadian company’s technology could support future defense and industrial applications. Canada’s decision to move TKMS into formal contract negotiations gives both companies an opportunity to continue those discussions, although any commercial collaboration still depends on government approvals and definitive agreements. GH Power has developed a modular reactor that converts recycled metals and water into high-purity alumina, clean hydrogen, and industrial thermal energy. The company believes those products could support several parts of the defense manufacturing chain, particularly facilities involved in shipbuilding, advanced materials production and energy-intensive industrial operations. High-purity alumina remains a strategically important material because manufacturers use it in semiconductors, specialty ceramics, lithium-ion battery separators and several defense applications. Clean hydrogen could supply industrial facilities, while the reactor’s thermal output can replace conventional heat sources used during manufacturing. Defense supply chain GH Power said its technology aligns with three areas it wants to commercialize over the coming years. Those include qualifying advanced materials for defense applications, supplying distributed clean energy to industrial and maritime facilities and supporting domestic production of critical materials used in Canadian and allied defense programs. David White, chief executive officer of GH Power, said TKMS’s selection strengthens the foundation for future collaboration. “We believe TKMS’s selection for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project marks an important milestone for our collaboration,” White said. He added that the companies have an opportunity to demonstrate the technology in next-generation defense manufacturing while accelerating commercialization of GH Power’s clean hydrogen and advanced materials platform. Thomas Keupp, chief sales officer at TKMS, said the partnership could help establish a long-term industrial base in Canada alongside the future submarine program. He added that sustainability and advanced technologies remain central to the company’s plans for its Canadian operations. Participation in Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits program could also provide GH Power with non-dilutive funding to advance development and validation of its technology. The company stressed that any such support remains subject to project selection by the Canadian government and future commercial agreements with TKMS. Public listing plans The submarine opportunity follows another major milestone for GH Power. The company recently signed a definitive business combination agreement with Matinas BioPharma Holdings. If the transaction closes, GH Power will become part of a newly formed Ontario company expected to operate as GH Power International and seek a listing on the NYSE American.GH Power expects access to US public markets to support commercialization of its modular reactor platform and expand deployments across North America and Europe. The transaction still requires shareholder, regulatory, court, and exchange approvals before it can close.Recommended ArticlesGet the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.Aamir is a seasoned tech journalist with experience at Exhibit Magazine, Republic World, and PR Newswire. With a deep love for all things tech and science, he has spent years decoding the latest innovations and exploring how they shape industries, lifestyles, and the future of humanity.