Canada considers purchasing eight German submarines initially, with four more to follow

OTTAWA — The federal government is considering dividing its planned acquisition of 12 German-built submarines into two stages, initially committing to eight vessels while leaving the purchase of four additional submarines for a future decision.

According to CBC News, Canadian negotiators presented the proposal during discussions in Ottawa with German defence manufacturer TKMS and Norwegian defence company Kongsberg.

The negotiations form part of Canada’s multibillion-dollar submarine procurement program, intended to replace the Royal Canadian Navy’s aging Victoria-class fleet and strengthen the country’s maritime defence capabilities.

The purchase of 12 submarines is estimated to cost between $20 billion and $24 billion, with operational and maintenance expenses expected to push the program’s long-term costs substantially higher.

However, the proposed phased acquisition could affect Germany’s commitment to approximately $86 billion in Canadian economic investments, including defence manufacturing, industrial partnerships and infrastructure projects.

The government has maintained that its objective is to acquire up to 12 modern submarines, while preserving financial flexibility and securing economic benefits for Canadian industries.

The negotiations come as Ottawa works to modernize the Canadian Armed Forces, reinforce NATO commitments and strengthen Arctic security amid increasing geopolitical competition.