Canada outlines reasons for major submarine purchase

Canada is planning to replace its aging submarine fleet with up to 12 new vessels from German shipbuilder ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, in what Prime Minister Mark Carney described as the country’s largest defence procurement to date. The initial purchase could cost up to $24 billion, while the full program, including maintenance and longterm support, may reach about $100 billion over time. The government says the investment is meant to strengthen national defence in a more volatile global environment, with Russia’s war in Ukraine and wider NATO security concerns shaping the decision. Carney also pointed to the Arctic, where melting ice is opening waters that Canada views as increasingly important to both sovereignty and security. Canada’s current submarine force consists of four Victoriaclass boats, but only one is operational. Officials and defence analysts say the new fleet would improve readiness, interoperability with NATO partners, and support for Arctic operations, while also requiring major new infrastructure and longterm industrial work in Canada.