Korea’s confidence grows against Germany in Canada's $40B submarine race

The 3,000-ton ROKS Dosan Ahn Chang-ho enters the Canadian naval base in Esquimalt, Victoria, on May 23, marking the first trans-Pacific voyage ever undertaken by a Korean submarine. [YONHAP]

[NEWS ANALYSIS]

At the beginning of Canada’s closely watched $40 billion submarine bidding process, Korea appeared to be somewhat behind Germany, but the tide has since shifted, largely thanks to a hefty investment package that includes local manufacturing and technology transfers in hydrogen, auto, steel and even space launchers.

The strength of the German consortium, led by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), lies in Germany's status as a member of NATO and the EU, a bloc that Canada is trying to align with to balance its traditionally close U.S. ties. Korea's appeal comes from its proven operational capabilities, manufacturing capabilities and ability to meet delivery schedules — factors openly favored by some defense heavyweights in Canada.

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