Recently, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), on behalf of the Department of National Defense (DND), issued a Request for Information (RFI) to industry stakeholders. Information (RFI) for the planned procurement of 12 3,000-tonne conventionally powered submarines, with a November 18, 2024 RFI deadline.
To avoid any gaps in Canadian submarine capabilities, Canada anticipates a contract award by 2028, with the delivery of the first replacement submarine no later than 2035. These efforts are part of Canada’s plan to increase its defence spending ratio in relation to gross domestic product.
Some Korean media said that 12 submarines worth about 70 trillion won (about $ 53 billion), including HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Hanwha Ocean and a number of shipbuilding companies eyeing this big order. As early as July this year, there has been news that the Canadian Department of National Defense is proceeding with the order of 12 submarines, and has initiated the formal process of meeting with shipbuilders.
The RCN’s current Victoria-class submarine fleet is scheduled to be decommissioned in the mid-2030s. As such, replacement vessels are needed so that Canada can continue meet its defence objectives and maintain its maritime capabilities. The new submarines must be able to avoid being tracked by enemy ships, have superior operational capabilities, be deployed within the Arctic Circle, and be able to travel long distances.
“As an Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific nation with the world’s longest coastline, Canada needs a new fleet of submarines. The procurement of up to 12 conventionally-powered, under-ice capable submarines for the Royal Canadian Navy will enhance Canada’s ability to detect and deter maritime threats, control our maritime approaches, and project power and striking capabilities further from our shores. We look forward to working with industry partners to implement this crucial project, in support of the priorities outlined in Our North, Strong and Free,” the Canadian Minister of National Defence Bill Blair said.
The RCN current submarine fleet will remain operational into the mid-to late 2030s via the Victoria-class Modernization (VCM) project. The RCN requires its first new submarine to be delivered by the mid-2030s to ensure transition between classes without capability gaps. The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project was established in 2021 to inform timely governmental decision-making about a potential replacement class of submarines and avoid any gap in Canadian submarine capabilities.
As the Canadian government launches a major order for 12 submarines, South Korean shipbuilders HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Hanwha Ocean are also gearing up for the order, reportedly having received a tender and preparing to submit the necessary documents.
In addition to South Korean shipbuilders, Japanese and European shipbuilders will also compete, eyeing the 12 submarine bid, with candidates including Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Sweden’s Saab, and Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems.