In a debate that is rapidly intensifying, a senior figure from the German submarine manufacturer TKMS has argued that its joint proposal with Norway for 12 submarines is better suited to Canada than a competing bid from South Korea’s Hanwha. Philipp Schön, the head of sales for TKMS’s submarine operations, contends that cultural compatibility, particularly regarding the working language, should be a crucial consideration in Ottawa’s forthcoming decision on the multi-billion-dollar contract.
Competing Proposals for Canada’s Submarine Future
Both TKMS and Hanwha have presented bids for Canada’s next-generation submarines, a contract that could be worth between $20 billion and $30 billion for the vessels alone, with total costs climbing to an estimated $50 billion when factoring in operations, maintenance, and upgrades. The Canadian government is poised to announce its choice soon, with TKMS’s 212CD model and Hanwha’s KSS-III Batch-II submarine as the frontrunners.
If Hanwha were to secure the deal, it would mark a significant shift in Canada’s defence procurement strategy, as it would be the first substantial arms acquisition from a non-Western supplier. This would not only reshape Canada’s military partnerships but also establish an unprecedented relationship with South Korea.
The Cultural Ecosystem Argument
In a LinkedIn post, Schön urged Canadian stakeholders to reflect on the cultural implications of their submarine choice. He suggested that the language of operation should be a primary focus, positing that Canada would benefit from the English-language framework established within the TKMS-Norwegian collaboration.
“Sometimes the most important interface in a submarine programme is not man-machine. It’s human-human,” Schön stated. He emphasised that by selecting the German-Norwegian submarine, Canada would join a programme already structured for international engagement, thus avoiding potential language barriers that could complicate cooperation.
By highlighting the significance of language in defence procurement, Schön underscored a key point: effective collaboration in defence projects hinges on clear communication. He pointed out that language influences every aspect of a submarine programme, from technical documentation to training procedures.
Reactions from Hanwha and Industry Experts
In response to Schön’s assertions, Glenn Copeland, CEO of Hanwha Defence Canada, expressed disappointment at the language-focused narrative. He emphasised that the Hanwha team possesses strong multilingual capabilities, having worked and studied internationally. “Engineering and mathematics are the universal languages that deliver superb ships and submarines,” Copeland asserted, noting that the South Korean navy frequently operates alongside English-speaking forces.
Vina Nadjibulla, vice-president of research and strategy at the Asia Pacific Foundation, cautioned against framing the submarine decision as a binary choice between cultural ecosystems. She argued that Canada and South Korea enjoy a robust partnership across various domains, and the decision should hinge on capabilities and long-term value rather than cultural compatibility.
Flavio Volpe, president of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, also weighed in, recalling two decades of successful collaboration with South Korean firms. He suggested that Schön’s comments might reflect a lack of understanding of Canada’s diverse business landscape.
Language as a Strategic Consideration
Schön’s comments reflect a broader trend in defence procurement, where the interplay of language and culture can significantly impact strategic partnerships. By suggesting that language is a form of infrastructure, he opens the door to a deeper conversation about the implications of such choices.
As Canada grapples with its submarine selection, it faces not just a financial decision but a pivotal moment in determining its future defence relationships. The choice between TKMS and Hanwha could redefine Canada’s approach to military cooperation in an increasingly multipolar world.
Why it Matters
Canada’s decision on its next submarine fleet is poised to resonate beyond the immediate military implications. It serves as a litmus test for how the country navigates complex international relationships and the balance between traditional allies and emerging partners. As the global defence landscape evolves, the choice made today could shape not only operational capabilities but also the future of Canada’s strategic alliances in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.
