Question Period Note: Canadian Surface Combatant

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About

Reference number:
DND-2020-QP-00010
Date received:
Dec 10, 2020
Organization:
National Defence
Name of Minister:
Sajjan, Harjit S. (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of National Defence

Issue/Question:

Why is the Government buying these ships despite increasing costs and uncertain timelines?

Suggested Response:

  • Combat ships play a crucial role in naval operations.
  • The Royal Canadian Navy requires versatile, warfare-ready ships that can be deployed rapidly, anywhere in the world.
  • That is why the government is currently procuring 15 new multi-role Canadian Surface Combatant ships for the Royal Canadian Navy.
  • This represents the largest and the most complex investment in the Navy since the Second World War.
  • Once complete, these ships will be able to deliver decisive combat power at sea and meet future threats.
  • This project will not only support the future of the Royal Canadian Navy, but will also revitalize the Canadian shipbuilding industry, sustaining and creating thousands of high-skilled jobs.
  • We look forward to cutting steel on the first ship in the 2023-2024 timeframe.
  • These modern ships will help the Navy meet Canada’s defence and security challenges in the coming decades.

Background:

Responsible Principals: Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel), Royal Canadian Navy

Additional Information:

Quick Facts

  • Estimated Budget: $56-$60 billion
  • The construction of the first vessel begins 2023/2024
  • Economic benefits:
    • Thousands of jobs across Canada through supply chain and subcontracting