Canadian Navy to add 12 submarines for Arctic defence

The Canadian Navy aims to bolster its forces by adding twelve underwater units capable of operating in ice-covered waters. These submarines will protect the Arctic Ocean from potential threats Russia or China poses.

Canada announced the initiation of a program to purchase twelve conventional submarines. At this stage, the mission of the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project involves searching for partners who can collaborate in this area.

Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair stated that in the fall of 2024, the country will begin looking for the final contractor. This will include delivering the equipment and establishing a comprehensive logistical support centre for the Canadian submarine fleet in Canada.

"Canada has the longest coastline in the world. Underwater surveillance is key to the country's security. Until recently, natural conditions in the Arctic Ocean provided additional protection. However, now the climate is warming, making the vast region more accessible," the Canadian government stated on its official website in a communication about the start of the CPSP project.

The program is a response to Russian submarines exploring the Atlantic, the Arctic Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean, as well as China rapidly expanding its submarine fleet. In response, the Canadian government has committed to exploring the possibilities of renewing and expanding the submarine fleet. Their task will be to detect threats and deter enemies.

The current Canadian fleet consists of four Victoria-class submarines. The equipment is already outdated and costly to maintain. The country needs a new submarine fleet.

However, the Victoria-class submarines will not be scrapped. They will be modernized and used until the end of the 2030s.

The Canadian government also announced that it will allocate 8.1 billion dollars for new defence expenditures over five years and 73 billion dollars over twenty years. Besides purchasing 12 submarines, the country also plans to provide the military with new vehicles adapted for driving on ice, snow, and tundra.

The fleet of tanks and light armoured vehicles is to be modernized or replaced. The military also needs new surveillance drones and devices to counter foreign drones.