Quote:
Originally Posted by Llarry
The Canadian Patrol Submarine is a major (and expensive) effort to boost Canada's maritime security.
Before Canada joined the program, Norway and Germany had already planned integrated efforts for design and sustainment of the Type 212CD boats. ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) based the design on the smaller Type 212A submarine, but with many improvements. With Canada joining the program, some components will be Canadian-supplied.
The first thing you notice about this submarine is the diamond-shaped hull form, which is designed to scatter sounds waves -- a bit analogous to stealth aircraft. Another interesting design feature is the offset torpedo tubes at the bow (see below).
Compared with its Type 212A predecessor the 212CD is considerably larger (see data sheet) but retains a relatively small crew.
Norway plans to buy 6 boats and Germany to buy 6-9. All units will be based at Haakonvern, Norway. The dozen Canadian boats will be based on the both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. The first RCN deliveries are projected for 2033-34; Germany is permitting Canada to take early delivery by diverting boats originally intended for Germany to Canada.
The first Type 212CD is scheduled to be commissioned in the Royal Norwegian Navy in 2029, joined a year later by the second boat. The 4th and 5th boats are scheduled to go to Germany in 2031 and 2034. The addition of Canada is introducing some changes in the order of delivery -- the first four RCN boats are due by 2034.
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Buying a dozen submarines is a major game changer for the RCN. At the same time, Canada is embarked on a major combat aircraft modernization with the CF-35A and possibly Gripen.
The history of Canadian defence programmes is of occasional very ambitious projects (CF-105 probably the best example) coupled with cancellation or deep cuts.
So I ask my Canadian friends, will the submarines and fighters really become reality? I would value your opinion.
