Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Norway early Friday for crucial meetings with the country’s leader and the German chancellor. The visit also includes observing a significant NATO wargaming exercise involving Canadian troops. Norway and Germany are both supporting a proposal by German submarine-maker TKMS to supply Canada with 12 new submarines, a substantial program accelerated by the Liberal government. Carney clarified that the submarine bid is not expected to be a topic of discussion among the three leaders at this stage of the process.
TKMS and South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean submitted their proposals to Canada’s defence investment agency on March 2, with the bidding process set to conclude in early April following potential clarifications by federal officials. A decision on the submarine contract is anticipated to be made swiftly, possibly by late June.
The joint pitch by Germany and Norway emphasizes North Atlantic solidarity and the historical cooperation between NATO allies, highlighting the advantages of all three nations operating similar submarines. TKMS is proposing the Type 212CD, an updated version of the Type 212 submarine used by multiple navies.
While the submarine bid may not be up for discussion, the meeting provides an opportunity for allied collaboration. Political and defense expert Micheal Byers noted the importance of such engagements and speculated on the prime minister’s decision-making process. Carney and the two other leaders are scheduled to visit Bardufoss, above the Arctic Circle, to witness the Cold Response exercise involving over 25,000 NATO personnel from 14 countries.
Defence expert Keir Giles highlighted the valuable experience Canadian troops bring to such Arctic conditions and the significance of civilian participation in the exercise. The incorporation of civilians in the wargaming scenario aims to realistically assess the impact of conflict on civilian populations, a vital aspect of modern warfare.
As NATO nations strive to engage their populations, the upcoming days of the exercise offer important insights. Giles emphasized the need for resilience in societies and economies to ensure continuity in the face of adversarial threats.