Both companies and their respective governments have been told to expect a relatively swift decision by Prime Minister Mark Carney's government, with a selection being made as soon as late June, several sources told CBC News.
Between now and April 6, the federal government has reserved the right to ask both bidders clarifying questions about their submissions, the confidential sources added. After that the plans will be analyzed mostly through the lens of what economic benefits — both direct and indirect investment — can be brought to Canada.
The navy has already said both the South Korean KS-III and the German Type 212CD designs will deliver the capability it needs.
The South Koreans are promising to deliver four submarines by 2035, the year the navy plans to begin retiring its current fleet. The Germans have said publicly they can deliver a boat by 2032 with a steady ramping up of production afterwards.
Hanwha Ocean submitted its bid late last week, ahead of the deadline. The South Korean government and the conglomerate of Hyundai companies have been pitching to help Canada establish hydrogen fuel-cell facilities and corridors that could support railways or heavy-duty trucks, and potential automotive plant investment by Hyundai.
www.navalnews.com
