Strategy for Submarines?
By Moderator, 31 July 2026
At the beginning of July Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the winning bid for the construction of (up to) 12 submarines -- the German-Norwegian consortium TKMS. South Korea and Hanwha Ocean were the losers. Both bids involved excellent products and many promises to create value in the country. Either submarine would have been a good choice. The selection of the TKMS option illustrates Canada’s continuing commitment to NATO/the Atlantic, despite claims that it wants to enhance relations in the Asia-Pacific region.
The first submarine will be delivered by the mid-2030s. In that time period, there is much to be done. Facilities for the submarines must be created, maintenance personnel need to be hired and trained, and crews need to be generated. These tasks will all be challenging. But it would also be useful if defence policy could give a clear outline of the strategic purpose of the submarines. For more, see...
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Current Issue: Vol. 22 No. 1 (2026)
As usual, the issue contains a smorgasbord of material, with something for everyone. Our first article takes us to China and outlines how it has become a shipbuilding powerhouse.
The second article discusses Canada’s participation in the Gulf War, as we reach the 35th anniversary of the conflict.
The third article argues that RCN veterans should be seen as strategic assets and treated and trained as such. The final essay outlines some of the defence capabilities that are being ordered/built, particularly relating to the Arctic, even in the absence of a new defence policy to provide strategic direction.
And, of course, we have our usual Making Waves commentaries. In response to enthusiastic discussion on Broadsides (our online discussion forum), we have a commentary about whether geography is destiny for Canada – i.e., as a small (in terms of population) country next door to the United States, does Canada have options for defence? There’s a commentary asking if naval art is dead, a commentary about naval capabilities for the Arctic, and a commentary about how the RCN can make the navy more visible to Canadians.
And, of course, we have our regular columns. “A View from the West” looks at whether China is indeed capable of/intending to invade Taiwan in 2027. “Dollars and Sense” examines the Defence Industrial Strategy, and “Warship Developments” updates us on recent naval developments.
Naturally, we have our usual amazing photos!
The spring issue will be in the mailbox of people who are lucky enough to be subscribers! It’s not too late for you to subscribe. See here for the Table of Contents.
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