On November 10, Vice Admiral Angus Topshee, the 38th Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), paid a visit to Hanwha Ocean’s shipyard in Geoje, South Korea. This important meeting centered on Canada’s plans to modernize its submarine fleet through the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), a procurement effort in which Hanwha Ocean is a key contender.
The visit underscored the strategic partnership evolving between Hanwha Ocean and Canada, particularly in the realm of advanced submarine technology. During the tour, the Vice Admiral was introduced to Hanwha Ocean’s state-of-the-art KSS-III Batch-II submarine, a model serving as the foundation for Hanwha’s proposed solution for the CPSP. This hands-on demonstration offered an in-depth look at the shipyard’s innovative design and construction capabilities, as well as a detailed briefing on the submarine’s unique features.
Hanwha Ocean emphasized that its KSS-III platform is the only solution capable of meeting all of Canada’s stringent High-Level Mandatory Requirements. The company also outlined its commitment to supporting Canada’s long-term defence goals through comprehensive technology transfers. This initiative would establish independent in-country submarine maintenance capabilities, ensuring long-term operational readiness for the Royal Canadian Navy.
Charlie SC Eoh, Hanwha Ocean’s President and Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the broader implications of the project: “During his visit to the Hanwha Ocean Geoje shipyard, VAdm Topshee had the opportunity to see the current production line of the KSS-III submarine. In addition to obtaining significantly enhanced capability of the submarine much sooner, Hanwha Ocean’s capacity to deliver the KSS-III well in advance of the replacement of Victoria Class Submarines would lead to significant cost-savings for Canada compared to continuing to support this aging fleet.”
Hanwha Ocean has already taken concrete steps to support its bid for the CPSP, including submitting a proposal to Canada’s Request for Information (RFI). The company has also forged partnerships with Canadian industry to strengthen local expertise in submarine maintenance and technology. Earlier this year, Hanwha Ocean was the sole South Korean company to exhibit at CANSEC 2024, Canada’s largest defence showcase, where it demonstrated the advanced features of the KSS-III Batch-II submarine.
Looking ahead, Hanwha Ocean is designing a customized training program to meet the Royal Canadian Navy’s specific operational and maintenance needs. This program aims to develop a skilled Canadian workforce capable of supporting submarine operations in diverse environments.
The timing of Vice Admiral Topshee’s visit added a poignant layer of meaning, as it occurred just one day before Canada’s Remembrance Day on November 11—a day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Canadian military personnel. This symbolic connection further underscores the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations in the pursuit of shared security goals.
By showcasing its technological capabilities and commitment to collaboration, Hanwha Ocean has positioned itself as a strong partner for Canada’s future in submarine operations.