The main highlight of this offer is the KSS-III submarine, a state-of-the-art vessel developed by Hanwha Ocean and Hyundai Heavy Industries. They have also promised to deliver the first four submarines by 2035, significantly ahead of Canada’s current timeline.
Known for its advanced air-independent propulsion system, enabling extended submerged operations, the KSS-III can be a big boost to Canada’s operations in vast Arctic waters.
The proposal also includes establishing maintenance and potentially manufacturing facilities in Canada which will create local employment opportunities and improve Canada’s defence industrial base.
Hanwha Aerospace, a sister company to Hanwha Ocean, has offered to supply Canada with advanced artillery systems, including the K9 self-propelled howitzer, and a range of armoured vehicles. They are expected to enhance the army’s capabilities, especially in mobile artillery and rocket based artillery. The proposal also includes the establishment of maintenance and support infrastructure within Canada.This proposal aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Canada-South Korea relations. In November 2024, the two nations held their first Foreign and Defence (2+2) Ministerial Meeting, marking a significant step in their diplomatic and security cooperation.
The defence proposal further solidifies this growing partnership, with both countries recognising the strategic importance of collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond and shaping the trajectory of both nations’ security and defence.