Canada has introduced a program to develop 12 conventionally-powered submarines to bolster its security in the Arctic Ocean.
The fleet will take over the role of the nation’s aging Victoria-class submarines in service since the early 1990s.
Although no specifications have been declassified, the Canadian defense agency revealed the systems will incorporate an “under-ice” capability to match conditions across the Arctic and other oceans surrounding the country.
They will also incorporate extended range and endurance to maintain detection and neutralization capabilities across Canada and in support of allies.
Ottawa is now negotiating with manufacturers and potential partners to execute works for the submarines.
This process will be followed by a request for information in the fall to streamline details regarding the construction, procurement, delivery, and operational capabilities of potential bidders.
The request will also promote the possibility of a domestic submarine sustainment center to support the upcoming ships.
Canadian Patrol Submarine Project
Called the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), the initiative aligns with the government’s latest defense policy, which indicates the impact of global warming on the Arctic and how it could result in new threats with “growing capabilities and regional military ambitions.”
Ottawa wrote that the CPSP vessels will be utilized to monitor areas such as the nation’s Northwest Passage, parts of the Arctic region, and other maritime locations where “more frequent and regular presence” is observed.
The government noted that such activities involve sea floor exploration, intelligence, and probing of Canadian infrastructure.
In its announcement, Ottawa hinted that the CPSP effort is part of Canada’s response to China’s and Russia’s growing underwater fleets.
“As the country with the longest coastline in the world, Canada needs a new fleet of submarines – and today, we’ve announced that we will move forward with this acquisition,” Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair remarked during the announcement.
“This new fleet will enable Canada to protect its sovereignty in a changing world, and make valuable, high-end contributions to the security of our partners and NATO Allies. We look forward to delivering this new fleet to the Royal Canadian Navy.”