South Korea is positioning itself as a key defense supplier to Canada, offering advanced military equipment, including the next-generation KSS-III submarine. A delegation of South Korean officials and industry representatives visited Ottawa on March 5-6, 2025, promoting a range of defense solutions and promising industrial collaboration.

The KSS-III submarine, developed by Hanwha Ocean, is designed for long-range missions and Arctic operations, featuring an extended underwater endurance of over three weeks. South Korea`s defense industry has been expanding rapidly, securing multi-billion-dollar contracts in Europe, particularly with Poland and Romania.

This proposal comes as Canada reassesses its reliance on U.S. military technology, amid concerns over operational sovereignty and restrictions on American-made systems like the F-35 fighter jets and Canadian Surface Combatant warships. While Canada continues to procure U.S. military equipment, political tensions with Washington are prompting policymakers to explore alternative suppliers.

If Canada seriously considers South Korea’s offer, it could signal a significant shift in defense procurement strategy, diversifying its partnerships and reducing dependence on U.S. restrictions.