Part 6/11:
The choice to outsource the submarine fleet’s construction reflects Canada’s broader vulnerability: dependence on foreign nations for critical defense capabilities. Each submarine’s estimated cost of around $2 billion, coupled with decades of maintenance, implies a staggering financial commitment—potentially $24 billion for twelve vessels—yet most of that money would flow outside Canada.
This outsourcing also undermines Canada’s industrial capabilities. The Germans and Norwegians offered to build in Canada, but South Korea refused, citing the lengthy process and their confidence in delivering faster from their own facilities. Canada's leadership, instead of fostering local production, has become reliant on external partners, effectively surrendering control over its defense future.