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In a revealing commentary on the submarine procurement process, a senior executive from German shipbuilder TKMS has made a strong case for why a joint proposal with Norway to supply Canada with 12 submarines may be a more suitable choice than a competing bid from South Korea’s Hanwha. Philipp Schön, head of sales for TKMS’s submarine division, highlighted the importance of cultural alignment and language compatibility in defence procurement, suggesting that an English-language programme could facilitate better collaboration between Canada and its allies.
The Stakes of Submarine Procurement
The Canadian government is on the verge of a critical decision regarding its next-generation submarine fleet, a contract that could be worth between $20 billion and $30 billion for the vessels alone, with total costs—including operations, maintenance, and upgrades—potentially reaching up to $50 billion. Both TKMS and Hanwha have submitted their bids for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project, with a decision expected imminently. Should Canada opt for Hanwha’s KSS-III Batch-II submarine, it would mark a significant shift in procurement practices, being the first major arms deal with a non-Western supplier.
Language as a Barrier or Bridge?
In his recent LinkedIn post, Schön urged Canadian officials to reflect on the broader implications of their choice, particularly regarding the “cultural ecosystem” they would be joining. He posited that selecting the TKMS 212CD model would not subject Canada to the complexities of adapting to a different linguistic environment, as the joint venture with Norway operates primarily in English.
“Defence cooperation works best when partners can engage directly, not through translation,” he stated, emphasising that effective collaboration hinges on the ability of engineers and sailors to communicate without linguistic barriers. Schön pointed out that the governance and operational structures of the 212CD programme are designed for international participation, contrasting this with what he perceives as the risks associated with a partnership with Hanwha.
Responses from Competitors and Observers
The reaction from Hanwha Defence Canada has been swift. Glenn Copeland, the company’s CEO, described Schön’s comments on language as “unfortunate” and misrepresentative of his experiences with Germany. He underscored that the Hanwha team boasts extensive multilingual capabilities, asserting that engineering and mathematics transcend language barriers. Copeland further noted that the South Korean navy regularly collaborates with English-speaking allies, including participation in the biennial Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC).
Vina Nadjibulla, vice-president of research and strategy at the Asia Pacific Foundation, weighed in on the discourse, arguing that framing the procurement decision as a cultural dichotomy risks fostering unnecessary divides between allies. Nadjibulla advocated for an assessment based on technical capabilities and long-term value rather than assumptions about cultural fit.
Flavio Volpe, president of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, echoed these sentiments, sharing his extensive positive experiences with South Korean firms. Volpe suggested that Schön’s remarks could stem from a lack of understanding of Canada’s diverse business environment.
The Bigger Picture: Defence and Industrial Cooperation
As Canada navigates this pivotal moment in its defence procurement strategy, the implications extend beyond the immediate choice of submarine supplier. The decision will shape Canada’s defence relationships, particularly with growing powers in Asia. The ability to work collaboratively with trusted partners while ensuring operational compatibility is more crucial than ever.
The discourse surrounding the submarine procurement highlights the intricate balance between operational capability and cultural understanding. While language and cultural alignment are undeniably important, the primary focus should remain on the technical merits of the proposals and the long-term benefits they offer to Canada’s defence landscape.
Why it Matters
The decision on Canada’s next submarine fleet is not merely a transactional procurement; it represents a strategic choice that could define Canada’s defence posture for decades. As geopolitical tensions evolve and the nature of international alliances shifts, the ability to foster effective collaboration and interoperability with partners will be essential. The implications of this choice will resonate beyond the confines of the naval fleet, influencing Canada’s broader relationships in an increasingly interconnected world.
