The arrival of the South Korean submarine Dosan Ahn Changho at CFB Esquimalt in Victoria, British Columbia, marks a pivotal moment in Canada’s ongoing submarine procurement process. This event not only initiates a series of ceremonial activities but also sets the stage for joint exercises with the Canadian Navy. As Ottawa edges closer to selecting a contractor for its historic acquisition of up to 12 new diesel-electric submarines, the competition remains fierce between South Korea’s Hanwha Defence and Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).
A Historic Arrival
On Saturday morning, the Dosan Ahn Changho made its way into Victoria’s harbour, capturing the attention of military officials and the public alike. Glenn Copeland, CEO of Hanwha Defence Canada, expressed the company’s excitement about the submarine’s presence in Canada during this crucial phase of the bidding process. “We’ve been at this for a while. We wanted the sub to come over here,” Copeland remarked, underscoring the strategic importance of the event for Hanwha.
The submarine’s journey began in Jinhae, South Korea on March 25, covering an impressive 14,000 kilometres across the Pacific Ocean, with necessary stops for refuelling in Guam and Hawaii. During the sub’s transit, two Canadian submariners, Lieutenant-Commander Britany Bourgeois and Petty Officer 2nd Class Jake Dixon, joined the crew in Hawaii, further cementing the collaborative spirit of this naval venture.
Insights from the Crew
Lieutenant-Commander Bourgeois provided valuable insights into the stark contrasts between the Dosan Ahn Changho and Canada’s aging Victoria-class submarines, noting the absence of rust and the enhanced space aboard the modern vessel. With only one of Canada’s four Victoria-class submarines currently operational and the others under repair, the need for an updated fleet is increasingly evident. “Being on a newer submarine really opened our eyes to the possibilities of what we have in store. What really hits home is that Canada needs new submarines,” she stated.
Petty Officer Dixon echoed this sentiment, drawing a vivid comparison: “It’s kind of like buying a brand-new Tesla and then you’re coming out of a ’99 Honda Civic.” Their experience aboard the Dosan Ahn Changho has not only enhanced their professional skills but also allowed them to immerse themselves in Korean culinary delights, including traditional dishes prepared by the onboard chef.
The Path Ahead for the Canadian Navy
The Canadian Navy currently has a modest contingent of around 200 submariners, a number that Rear-Admiral David Patchell, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific, asserts must grow significantly to meet future operational demands. He has stated that to effectively manage a fleet of 12 modern submarines, the Navy’s personnel must increase to approximately 1,000. “Is it a challenge? Absolutely, but it’s also an opportunity,” he said, highlighting a recent surge in recruitment efforts, particularly within the naval experience programme, where a notable one-third of candidates are expressing interest in submarine service.
Once the federal government makes its decision regarding the submarine contract, Rear-Admiral Patchell emphasised that the Navy will be prepared to construct its crews in alignment with the delivery timeline of the new vessels. “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 affirmed.
Why it Matters
The arrival of the Dosan Ahn Changho is more than a ceremonial event; it represents a significant step toward modernising Canada’s naval capabilities. As the nation grapples with an ageing fleet and increasing maritime security demands, the procurement of new submarines is crucial. This process not only strengthens Canada’s military readiness but also enhances international partnerships and fosters a deeper understanding of modern naval operations. The outcome of this procurement will have lasting implications for Canada’s role on the global stage, shaping its identity as a capable maritime nation.
