The incoming fleet of submarines to Halifax within the next decade poses opportunities and challenges for the region, according to a representative with Babcock Canada. Last July, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Germany’s TKMS would supply Canada with up to 12 submarines. The first four deliveries are expected to arrive by 2034. Halifax is expected to play a role in the maintenance of the submarines. Martin MacCorquodale with Babcock Canada, a company that works with submarines, said the capacity in Halifax will need to expand in the coming years. “It’s a huge opportunity and a challenge,” he told CTV News Atlantic’s Bruce Frisko. “The RCN (Royal Canadian Navy) has expressed an interest for Halifax to be the hub for the future fleet. “There are an awful lot of opportunities for local Nova Scotians.” MacCorquodale noted Babcock Canada already has 60 people in Halifax supporting the current submarine fleet. He hopes to see the entire workforce grow in the coming decade. “We can’t just flick a switch and have the workforce necessary to support platforms,” he said. “We have to have years of building up the curricula, the schooling. “In an ideal world, everyone’s ready to hit the ground running when the first submarine arrives.” For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
