Hanwha Ocean has sought to expand cooperation with institutions in Nova Scotia as part of its efforts to win Canada’s Patrol Submarine Project.
The South Korean shipbuilder held talks with Nova Scotia provincial government officials focused on defense readiness, as well as maintenance, repair, overhaul capacity, and industrial infrastructure.
It also explored potential collaboration with Halifax-based Irving Shipbuilding, covering naval sustainment, workforce development, supply chains, industrial participation, and facility modernization.
Irving Shipbuilding — one of Canada’s largest shipyards — and its affiliate Fleetway Inc. have been involved in several Royal Canadian Navy programs, including Arctic and offshore patrol ships, Halifax-class frigates, and the Aegis-equipped River-class destroyers.
“Through close cooperation with Canadian industry and government, we will build a Canada-centered sustainable submarine operation ecosystem and strengthen competitiveness,” Seoul Economic Daily quoted Hanwha Ocean CEO Kim Hee-chul as saying.
Canadian Partnerships
The Patrol Submarine Project intends to replace the navy’s Victoria-class diesel-electric submarines, scheduled for retirement in the 2030s, with up to 12 new platforms starting in 2035.
Canada launched a competition in 2024, with Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean emerging as finalists. A contract is expected by 2028.
Hanwha proposed its KSS-III submarine, featuring an air-independent propulsion system and armed with six 533.4mm tubes for launching torpedoes, missiles, and bottom mines.
Beyond its latest engagements in Nova Scotia, Hanwha signed multiple teaming agreements with Canadian companies and universities in March to boost innovation, manufacturing capacity, and workforce development for the Patrol Submarine Project.
In September 2025, the South Korean firm also partnered with Babcock Canada to provide in-service support for the program.
