In a significant move to bolster its naval capabilities, Canada is set to acquire up to 12 new submarines, a decision that marks a historic expansion of the Royal Canadian Navy’s underwater fleet. However, Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, the head of the navy, has indicated that these vessels will require modifications before they can operate effectively beneath Arctic ice. This announcement comes at a time when Canada faces increasing geopolitical pressures and heightened interest in Arctic resources and shipping routes.
Modifications Needed for Arctic Operations
Vice-Admiral Topshee revealed that the submarines, which are currently under consideration from two competitive models—one from South Korea and another from a German-Norwegian consortium—will not arrive fully equipped for under-ice operations. Essential enhancements, such as upward-facing sonar systems designed to detect and map ice above, will be necessary after delivery. “Rather than only being worried about the bottom below us, we’re going to be worried about the ice above us, because the ice is actually less predictable,” he explained in a recent interview.
While these modifications are deemed “relatively simple” by the Vice-Admiral, he stressed the importance of a cautious approach to developing capabilities in the demanding Arctic environment. The primary function of the new submarines will focus on monitoring critical maritime chokepoints rather than extensive under-ice missions.
The Geopolitical Landscape
Canada’s decision to invest in a new fleet of submarines comes against a backdrop of growing international interest in the Arctic. As global powers, notably the United States, turn their attention northward for both resources and potential shipping lanes, Canada is under pressure to assert its sovereignty. Moreover, the country faces a new NATO spending target, necessitating an increase in military expenditure.
The ongoing submarine programme represents the largest such acquisition in Canadian history, signalling a transformative shift in the nation’s maritime strategy. For the first time, the Royal Canadian Navy is poised to establish a substantial underwater presence, moving away from its current reliance on four aging, second-hand submarines, only one of which is usually operational.
Lessons from Abroad
In preparing for its new fleet, Canada is drawing on insights from other naval forces, notably Portugal’s navy, which has successfully modified a vessel for Arctic operations. Vice-Admiral Topshee noted that understanding the operational requirements for Arctic waters will be crucial. He stated, “When would we go under the ice? And for what purpose? What missions and roles would we be doing?” This reflects a broader strategy of assessing when it might be more advantageous to deploy unmanned sensors rather than crewed submarines, given the challenging acoustic environment beneath the ice.
Implications for Canada’s Defence Strategy
The Canadian military has articulated a need for 12 submarines to ensure adequate defence, based on a deployment model that anticipates only one in four vessels being ready for action at any given time. The understated title of the acquisition initiative—the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project—belies the offensive capabilities these vessels will bring. Both contenders are designed as attack submarines, with the South Korean KSS III Batch II capable of launching ballistic missiles.
With South Korean bidder Hanwha projecting the potential delivery of the first submarine by 2032 if contracted by 2026, and Germany’s TKMS asserting its readiness to provide the first vessel well ahead of the 2035 timeline, the stakes in this procurement are exceptionally high.
Why it Matters
The ramifications of this submarine acquisition extend far beyond the immediate enhancement of Canada’s naval capabilities. In an era marked by increasing geopolitical tensions and competition for Arctic resources, the Royal Canadian Navy is on the cusp of a transformative evolution. The successful integration of modern submarines into Canada’s defence strategy will not only bolster national security but also reaffirm the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty in the ever-strategic Arctic region.
