Canada has announced its intention to acquire up to 12 conventionally-powered, under-ice capable submarines, marking the first step towards procuring a new fleet to safeguard the country's security and sovereignty. With the largest coastline in the world, Canada recognizes the importance of having a robust underwater surveillance capability.

The Arctic region is increasingly vulnerable, as it is warming four times faster than the global average. This accessibility has attracted foreign actors with growing capabilities and military ambitions, who seek to exploit the region for transportation routes, natural resources, critical minerals, and energy sources. Their activities include exploring Arctic waters, underwater surveillance, and gathering intelligence.

In response to these emerging security concerns, the Government of Canada expressed its commitment to renew and expand its submarine fleet in the defense policy update, "Our North, Strong and Free," released in April 2024. Canada's current fleet of four Victoria-class submarines is becoming obsolete and costly to maintain, necessitating the acquisition of a new fleet to protect its sovereignty against evolving threats.

Minister of National Defence, the Honorable Bill Blair, has announced that Canada is taking the initial step in procuring up to 12 conventionally-powered, under-ice capable submarines. The government aims to engage with industry on this acquisition process, aligning with its renewed vision for defense.

The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP) will oversee the acquisition of a larger, modernized submarine fleet that will enhance the Royal Canadian Navy's capacity to covertly detect and deter maritime threats. The new submarines will provide extended range, endurance, and Arctic deployability, meeting Canada's key submarine capability requirements of stealth, lethality, and persistence.

The Department of National Defence is currently engaging with manufacturers and potential partners to gather information on the procurement, construction, delivery, and operational capabilities of potential bidders. A formal Request for Information (RFI) will be issued in the fall of 2024 to further assess potential submarine suppliers and establish a submarine sustainment capability in Canada.

The procurement process also aims to foster closer ties with strategic partners, establishing a durable relationship that includes personnel training and information sharing. Canada seeks submarines that not only fulfill its defense needs but also enable meaningful contributions alongside allies and support global security efforts.

This acquisition of up to 12 submarines is essential for the defense of Canada's three coasts. The federal government looks forward to partnering with industry to acquire world-class submarines and protect Canadian waters.

Minister Bill Blair emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating, "As the country with the longest coastline in the world, Canada needs a new fleet of submarines... 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."

The financing for this submarine procurement is part of the Government of Canada's commitment to defense, with $8.1 billion allocated over five years and $73 billion over 20 years for new defense spending. Furthermore, Canada has identified ten key capabilities, including renewing and expanding the submarine fleet, to strengthen its defense capabilities and address global challenges.

Canada's renewed vision for defense encompasses various initiatives, including acquiring vehicles adapted to ice, snow, and tundra, enabling helicopters on Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels, contributing to integrated air and missile defense, and acquiring long-range missiles and surveillance capabilities.

The four existing Victoria-class submarines were purchased from the British Government in 1998 and have been in service since their commissioning in Canada between 2000 and 2015. The government plans to operate and modernize these submarines until the mid-to-late 2030s.

With this latest announcement, Canada is moving ahead with its commitment to strengthen its naval capabilities and ensure the defense of its extensive coastlines. The government's partnership with industry will play a crucial role in acquiring a technologically advanced and capable submarine fleet that will safeguard Canada's security interests in a changing world.