Canada, boasting the world’s longest coastline, recognizes the imperative of robust underwater surveillance to safeguard its security and sovereignty.
In April 2024, Canada unveiled a significant update to its defense policy titled “Our North, Strong and Free,” which underscores the rapidly changing dynamics of the Arctic. With the region warming at four times the global rate, it has become increasingly accessible to foreign entities with growing military aspirations. By 2050, the Arctic Ocean could emerge as a prime shipping route between Europe and East Asia.
The increased accessibility of Canada’s Northwest Passage and the Arctic region at large has attracted competitors seeking to exploit transportation routes, natural resources, critical minerals, and energy sources. These actors are not only exploring the Arctic waters and sea floor but also probing Canadian infrastructure and gathering intelligence. In the maritime domain, Russian submarines are extending their reach across the Atlantic, Arctic, and Pacific Oceans, while China is rapidly expanding its underwater fleet.
In response to these evolving security challenges, “Our North, Strong and Free” articulates the Canadian Government’s commitment to enhancing its submarine capabilities. The aging fleet of four Victoria-class submarines is becoming increasingly outdated and costly to maintain. Consequently, Canada requires a modern fleet to effectively protect its sovereignty from emerging threats.
On July 10, 2024, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced a pivotal step towards this goal: Canada is initiating the procurement process for up to 12 conventionally-powered, under-ice capable submarines. This move marks a significant stride in actualizing Canada’s renewed defense vision.
“As the country with the longest coastline in the world, Canada needs a new fleet of submarines – and today, we’ve announced that we will move forward with this acquisition. This new fleet will enable Canada to protect its sovereignty in a changing world, and make valuable, high-end contributions to the security of our partners and NATO Allies. We look forward to delivering this new fleet to the Royal Canadian Navy,” detailed the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
Through the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), the country aims to acquire a larger, state-of-the-art submarine fleet. This fleet will empower the Royal Canadian Navy to stealthily detect and deter maritime threats, control maritime approaches, project power beyond its shores, and maintain a persistent deterrent across all three of Canada’s coasts.
The Department of National Defence is actively engaging with manufacturers and potential partners as part of the CPSP. This fall, a formal Request for Information (RFI) will be issued to gather details on procurement, construction, delivery, and operational capabilities of prospective bidders. The RFI will also seek information to establish a submarine sustainment capability within Canada. This initiative will foster closer ties with allies and partners, establishing strategic partnerships that facilitate not only the delivery of submarines but also comprehensive support for personnel training and information sharing.
Canada’s new submarine fleet must meet key capability requirements: stealth, lethality, persistence, and Arctic deployability. The submarines must have extended range and endurance, enabling Canada to detect, track, deter, and, if necessary, neutralize adversaries across its three oceans. Additionally, these submarines will enhance Canada’s ability to contribute meaningfully alongside allies and support global missions.
The procurement of up to 12 submarines is crucial for defending Canada’s extensive coastline. The federal government is eager to collaborate with industry partners to deliver world-class submarines, ensuring the nation’s maritime security for years to come.