Surprising. I would have thought the Germans made the best in the class. Certainly better than the Russians or French.
I wonder if the Germans are also having trouble with the type 212 (i.e. their new Germany-only diesel-electric boat)? I’m not sure how much commonality the 212 and the export-only 214 share, but I’d have to think there’s at least some shared components/tech.
When you go into negotiations as a potential buyer, it makes sense to down-talk the product a bit to drive the price down.
Ever buy a used car?
If their subs are anything like their Volkswagens, they are unreliable, break down frequently requiring expensive repairs with parts that have to come on a slow boat from Germany, but they are fun to drive when they are running. No thanks, not this girl, no more. Asian subs (cars) for me. Made by Honda.