Canada Set to Choose Between German and South Korean Submarine Bids

Canada is expected to decide on Monday between bids from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems of Germany and Hanwha Ocean of South Korea to build a fleet of 12 conventionally powered submarines in one of the country's largest-ever military procurement programs, Rob Gillies reported for The Associated Press (AP).

Canada is expected to announce its preferred bidder for a new fleet of 12 conventionally powered submarines. (Photo: TKMS Group)

The contract, valued at tens of billions of dollars, is expected to be announced before Mark Carney departs for the NATO summit in Turkey, as alliance members continue increasing defense spending.

Carney is scheduled to visit a Canadian Armed Forces base in Nova Scotia before announcing what his office described as "new measures to make Canada more secure, resilient, and prosperous."

A spokesperson for the prime minister declined to confirm whether the submarine announcement would be made that day. However, Carney said in May that a decision would be announced within weeks.

Canada's current fleet of four Victoria-class submarine submarines has experienced longstanding operational and maintenance challenges.