The Canadian government announced today its intention to procure 12 conventionally-powered, under-ice capable submarines, marking a significant step towards bolstering its naval capabilities. With a reported value of at least $60 billion Canadian dollars, this acquisition has already garnered interest from multiple shipbuilders worldwide.
Minister of National Defence, Bill Blair, highlighted the crucial need for a new fleet of submarines to safeguard Canada’s sovereignty and contribute to global security efforts. The decision to move forward with this acquisition was made public during the ongoing NATO Summit in Washington, DC.
Canada’s plan to replace its aging Victoria-class submarines has been in motion since April 2023, with discussions around the submarine program intensifying. Emphasizing the strategic importance of this investment, Blair reiterated that the acquisition aligns with Canada’s defense objectives and financial commitments, aiming to elevate defense spending to meet the 2 percent GDP target.
The Canadian government is currently engaging with potential manufacturers and partners through the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP) to gather essential information for the procurement process. A formal request for information is slated for fall 2024 to evaluate the capabilities of interested bidders in constructing and delivering submarines tailored to Canada’s requirements.
Notable shipbuilders like Saab from Sweden, offering the C71 ‘Expeditionary’ sub, and German-Norwegian Thyssenkrupp with the 212 CD class submarine package, have expressed interest in partnering with Canada for this initiative. Additionally, discussions have taken place with shipbuilders from Spain, France, Japan, and South Korea, reflecting the international reach of this submarine acquisition program.
The press release highlighted key submarine capability requirements, such as stealth, lethality, persistence, and Arctic deployability, crucial for operating in the challenging maritime environments that Canada faces. The new fleet is expected to enhance Canada’s ability to detect, deter, and engage potential threats across its vast maritime territories, while also supporting allies and contributing to international security efforts.
