**
In a striking assertion that could influence Canada’s submarine procurement decision, a senior executive from German submarine manufacturer TKMS has argued that a joint proposal with Norway for 12 submarines is more attuned to Canada’s needs than a competing offer from South Korea. Philipp Schön, head of sales for TKMS’s submarine division, highlighted the importance of linguistic and cultural compatibility in defence projects, suggesting that the English-speaking environment of the European collaboration would foster better cooperation over the anticipated 40-year lifespan of the submarines.
The Submarine Procurement Landscape
Both TKMS and South Korea’s Hanwha have submitted bids for Canada’s next generation of submarines, a project estimated to cost between $20 billion and $30 billion for the vessels alone, with total expenses—including operations and maintenance—potentially reaching $50 billion. The Canadian government is poised to make a decision soon about whether to select Hanwha’s KSS-III Batch-II submarine or TKMS’s 212CD model.
Should Canada opt for Hanwha’s submarine, it would mark a significant shift in procurement strategy, as it would be the first time a major weapons platform is sourced from a non-Western supplier. Such a move would establish a new and unprecedented partnership between Canada and an Asian nation.
Cultural Ecosystems and Language Barriers
In a recent LinkedIn post, Schön urged Canadian officials to reflect on the broader implications of their submarine choice. He asserted that the “cultural ecosystem” associated with a submarine programme is critical, stating, “Sometimes the most important interface in a submarine program is not man-machine. It’s human-human.” He posited that selecting the TKMS option would eliminate potential language barriers, facilitating direct collaboration between Canadian and European engineers—something he views as essential for operational success.
“Defence cooperation works best when partners can engage directly, not through translation,” Schön elaborated. He framed language as a vital piece of infrastructure that impacts not just communication, but also technical documentation, software development, and training—all fundamental to the success of a defence programme.
Industry Reactions and Broader Implications
Schön’s comments have sparked considerable debate. While he emphasised that the 212CD submarine project is designed for international collaboration, representatives from Hanwha have challenged his narrative. Glenn Copeland, CEO of Hanwha Defence Canada, countered that the linguistic capabilities of their team are more than sufficient, with members fluent in multiple languages, including English, French, and German.
Moreover, Vina Nadjibulla, vice-president of research and strategy at the Asia Pacific Foundation, cautioned against framing the submarine decision as a binary choice based on cultural compatibility. She noted that Canada and South Korea already enjoy a robust partnership across various sectors and that it would be more beneficial to evaluate proposals based on tangible capabilities and long-term value rather than cultural assumptions.
Flavio Volpe, president of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, expressed dismay over Schön’s comments, suggesting they reveal a lack of understanding about Canada’s diverse and multicultural landscape.
The Future of Defence Partnerships
As the Canadian government prepares to make a pivotal decision regarding its submarine capabilities, the discussions surrounding language and culture in defence procurement reveal the complexities of international partnerships.
Schön’s emphasis on the cultural ecosystem may resonate with some policymakers, but it also raises questions about the broader implications of such a narrative. If Canada is to deepen its defence ties with trusted partners, it must navigate not only the technical aspects of procurement but also the underlying cultural dynamics that influence collaboration.
Why it Matters
The choice of a submarine supplier could have lasting ramifications for Canada’s defence strategy and international relations. As the nation weighs its options, the discourse surrounding language and cultural compatibility underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of global partnerships. With an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape, Canada’s decision will not only shape its naval capabilities but potentially redefine its alliances in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. As the submarine project unfolds, it will serve as a litmus test for Canada’s approach to international defence collaborations.
