TKMS is proposing that Canada join an existing German-Norwegian programme producing advanced submarines able to remain submerged in Arctic waters for up to three weeks. Canada last year declared plans to acquire as many as 12 conventionally powered submarines capable of under-ice operations.
Other interested firms included Spain’s state-owned Navantia and Sweden’s Saab AB, which partnered with Canada’s CAE Inc., with Carney’s industry minister meeting Saab last week. However, Ottawa said the choice of TKMS and Hanwha followed “a thorough assessment of Canada’s requirements, including construction and delivery timelines.”
The government confirmed that it will now hold in-depth engagements with both suppliers to advance procurement. The Royal Canadian Navy requires a fleet that will “provide stealth, persistence and lethality as key capabilities,” according to the news release.
“The future Canadian Patrol Submarine will employ a unique combination of these attributes to ensure that Canada can detect, track, deter and, if necessary, defeat adversaries in all three of Canada’s oceans,” the statement added. Carney has previously noted that only one of Canada’s four submarines is currently seaworthy.
Hanwha’s bid has been reported at C$20 billion to C$24 billion, with Ottawa expecting the investment to be recouped as the vessels are maintained domestically. The government has set a 2028 deadline for awarding the contract, with service entry planned before 2035, though a senior official said a decision could come as early as this year.
Carney reiterated his commitment to NATO’s target of allocating 5% of GDP to defence and security, a move requiring tens of billions in extra annual spending. His European trip also includes a visit to Riga, Latvia, on Tuesday to meet Prime Minister Evika Silina and to reaffirm support for Ukraine.
