South Korea aims to win Canada’s sub bid with showcase of ship in B.C. - Global News
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South Korea Hanwha Ocean is making an aggressive push to secure Canada next-generation submarine contract, deploying a formidable KSS-III Batch-I submarine to British Columbia for a high-profile demonstration and joint exercises. This tactical showcase directly counters rival bids from European and Asian defense giants, aiming to prove operational capabilities and technological superiority ahead of Ottawa's pivotal decision on its multibillion-dollar fleet. This move highlights South Korea growing assertiveness in the global defense export market. This bid for Canada C$60-80 billion future submarine fleet is a critical component of South Korea burgeoning defense export strategy and a direct response to Canada urgent need to replace its aging Victoria-class vessels. The KSS-III, known for its Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and Vertical Launch System (VLS) capabilities, faces stiff competition from Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) with its stealthy Type 212CD, France's Naval Group, and Japan's Taigei-class. Canada decision will redefine its Arctic and Indo-Pacific naval presence for decades, making this a pivotal geopolitical procurement. With the Royal Canadian Navy actively evaluating interoperability and technical specifications during the KSS-III's two-week visit to Esquimalt, the stakes couldn't be higher. Observers anticipate Ottawa will issue a formal Request for Proposals later this year, with a final contractor selection expected in late 2027 or early 2028. The chosen platform will not only shape Canada maritime security but also signal a significant geopolitical alignment in a rapidly evolving global security landscape.