South Korean shipbuilders Hanwha Ocean and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) have submitted an unsolicited proposal for a new type of submarine for possible operation by the Royal Canadian Navy, news outlet Korea JoonAng Daily reported on Wednesday, May 7.
The partners intend to deliver four newbuild submarines to Canada by 2035 for an estimated total cost of over US$20 billion.
Hanwha Ocean and HHI's plans also include the establishment of submarine maintenance facilities in Canada and the recruitment of local personnel.
Although the Canadian Department of National Defence formally began its patrol submarine procurement (PSP) project in July last year, it has yet to issue any formal requests for proposals from eligible bidders.
Through the PSP project, Canada will acquire a larger, modernised submarine fleet to enable the Royal Canadian Navy to covertly detect and deter maritime threats, control maritime approaches, project power and striking capability further from Canada's shores, and project a persistent deterrent on all three of the country's coasts.
The DND said the procurement of up to 12 submarines is necessary to ensure the defence of the three coasts, and that the federal government is looking forward to working with industry to find a partner that will deliver the submarines.