Victoria-class Modernization (VCM)

Project Type

Project Extension

Objective

The Victoria-class Modernization (VCM) will provide modernized and increased capability which will maintain the Victoria-class submarines’ (VCS) operational relevance through the mid-2030s. VCM is considered a series of 17 individual projects implemented on a common platform to generate the necessary capability for Canada’s submarinesas detailed in Strong, Secure, Engaged: Canada’s Defence Policy. Overall, the modernization outcomes will make Canada and its allies stronger and safer by:

• Improving the habitability and deployment conditions onboard the VCS for Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) submariners;
• Positioning the VCS to contribute meaningfully to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Joint Operations ashore; and
• Ensuring the survivability of the VCS against current and evolving threats in an increasingly complex and changing battle space.

Requirements

The Victoria-class Modernization (VCM) will procure and install the necessary platform and combat system capabilities to ensure the submarine remains operationally relevant through the mid-2030s. VCM will address critical capability gaps in Canada’s submarines fleet that currently exist or are expected to emerge over the remaining years of the VCS operational life. It will deliver modernized submarines through targeted investments, focussed on new capabilities and equipment upgrades and insertions.

Funding Range

$500 million to $1 billion

Anticipated Timeline (Fiscal Year)

Options Analysis Phase

Completed

Definition Phase

Completed

Implementation Phase

In Progress

Initial Delivery

2025/2026

Final Delivery

2032/2033

Defence Capability Areas

• Missiles, Rockets, Ammunition & Other Munitions
• Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence
• Sea
• Surveillance & Reconnaissance
• Emerging Technology
• Training and Simulation

Defence Capability Investment Areas

• Missile Systems
• Rocket Systems
• Weapons Systems
• Battlespace Situational Awareness Tools
• Business Intelligence & Analytical Tools
• Decision Support Tools
• Deployable C4I Systems
• Fixed Communications Systems
• Information Management Tools
• Intelligence Fusion Tools
• Intelligence Mission Data Support Tools
• Satellite Communications Systems
• Marine sub-systems and Platform Management Systems
• Ship parts and components
• Submarines
• Advanced/Integrated Sensing Systems
• EO/IR Systems
• Fire Control
• Optical Systems
• Photonics systems
• Sonar and Acoustic Systems
• Surveillance & Recce Integration Tools
• Thermal systems
• Unmanned and/or Autonomous Systems
• Emerging/Advanced Training Techniques
• Simulation Equipment
• Simulation Software
• Training Services

Key Industrial Capabilities

• Cyber Resilience
• Defence Systems Integration
• Electro-Optical/Infrared Systems
• Marine Ship-Borne Mission and Platform Systems
• Remotely Piloted Systems and Autonomous Technologies
• Shipbuilding, Design and Engineering Services
• Sonar and Acoustic Systems

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