In a significant development for Canada’s naval capabilities, the South Korean submarine Dosan Ahn Changho docked at CFB Esquimalt near Victoria, British Columbia, on Saturday. This arrival marks the commencement of a series of ceremonies and joint exercises with the Royal Canadian Navy, coinciding with the federal government’s impending decision on a pivotal submarine procurement contract. South Korea’s Hanwha Defence, the submarine’s manufacturer, is vying against Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) for the opportunity to supply up to 12 new diesel-electric submarines to Canada.
A Historic Arrival
The Dosan Ahn Changho’s presence in Canadian waters is more than just ceremonial; it plays a crucial role in the ongoing evaluation process as Ottawa prepares to announce the winner of its submarine procurement programme. Glenn Copeland, CEO of Hanwha Defence Canada, expressed enthusiasm about the submarine’s visit, stating, “We’ve been at this for a while. We wanted the sub to come over here. We’re going to take advantage of the timing, the fact that the submarine is here, and we’re quite happy to get that promoted.”
The submarine made its long journey from Jinhae Naval Base in South Korea, covering an impressive 14,000 kilometres across the Pacific. The vessel stopped for refuelling in Guam and Hawaii, where two Canadian submariners, Lieutenant-Commander Britany Bourgeois and Petty Officer 2nd Class Jake Dixon, embarked to join the Korean crew on May 7. Their experience aboard the submarine is invaluable as Canada looks to enhance its own fleet.
Insights from the Canadian Crew
Upon boarding the Dosan Ahn Changho, both Bourgeois and Dixon noted stark contrasts between this modern vessel and Canada’s aging Victoria-class submarines, only one of which is currently operational. “Being on a newer submarine really opened our eyes to the possibilities of what we have in store,” remarked Lt.-Comm. Bourgeois, highlighting the urgent need for an upgraded fleet. Petty Officer Dixon likened the experience to “buying a brand-new Tesla and then you’re coming out of a ’99 Honda Civic,” emphasising the technological advancements of the South Korean submarine.
Their time aboard has also provided opportunities for professional growth, with Bourgeois focusing on naval warfare and Dixon working on electrical systems. In a lighter moment, Dixon shared his culinary adventures, noting the chef’s specialties, including Galbi, a popular Korean dish.
Recruiting for the Future
While Canada currently has around 200 submariners, this number will need to expand significantly as the navy prepares to operate a larger fleet. Rear-Admiral David Patchell, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific, acknowledged the challenge but viewed it as a chance for growth, noting an uptick in recruitment, particularly for submarine roles. “We have operated submarines for over 100 years, but we have never truly been a submarine nation. But with 12 modern submarines, Canada will be a submarine nation,” he asserted.
As the government finalises its decision, the navy plans to align its crew expansion with the anticipated delivery timeline of the new submarines, ensuring readiness to operate the forthcoming fleet.
Why it Matters
The arrival of the Dosan Ahn Changho is a pivotal moment for Canada’s naval ambitions, highlighting the pressing need for modernisation within the military. As the country stands on the brink of a substantial investment in its maritime capabilities, this procurement decision will not only shape the future of the Royal Canadian Navy but also enhance national security and bolster Canada’s position on the global stage. The commitment to developing a robust submarine force signals a strategic shift, embracing new technologies and operational capabilities necessary for contemporary defence challenges.
