The Canadian government is taking significant steps to bolster the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) underwater defence capabilities. Under the nation’s defence strategy, Our North, Strong and Free, the government aims to ensure that Canada remains well-equipped to safeguard its vast coastline and maintain its naval readiness in both present and future operations.

As home to the longest coastline on the planet, Canada’s security and sovereignty rely heavily on superior underwater surveillance. The RCN’s current fleet of Victoria-class submarines is set to retire by the mid-2030s, making the procurement of new vessels a critical priority. The need for a modern, capable fleet will enable Canada to meet its defence objectives and maintain its maritime presence.

“As Canada’s Arctic is becoming increasingly accessible, Canada needs reliable maritime capabilities to maintain our country’s security. As such, we are committed to building a more agile, better-equipped military, while ensuring that these new contracts benefit our businesses, workers and Canadians.  The procurement of new submarines for the Royal Canadian Navy will enhance our ability to monitor and detect threats along our coastlines, and protect Canadians,” expressed the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

In response, Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), in coordination with the Department of National Defence (DND), has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to global industry leaders. The goal is to gather insights into the availability of submarines, either currently in service or under construction, and assess whether companies have the ability to produce and deliver up to 12 submarines for Canada’s needs.

“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,” conveyed the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.

In tandem with the RFI, the Canadian government is engaging with officials from allied nations and companies in both Europe and Asia. These discussions focus on learning from countries already building submarines that could meet Canada’s specifications.

“The government remains committed to providing the Royal Canadian Navy with the critical platforms and equipment needed to protect Canada’s sovereignty and security. We look forward to receiving feedback from interested parties as part of this engagement and seeing how they intend to contribute to Canada’s long-term economic growth and industrial resiliency,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.

The government has invited stakeholders to submit their preliminary feedback by November 18, 2024. This input will help shape the ongoing procurement strategy.

To prevent any interruption in the country’s submarine capabilities, Canada expects to finalize a contract by 2028, with the first new submarine delivered no later than 2035. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance Canada’s defence spending and ensure the Navy remains prepared for future challenges.