Splitting Canada's submarine fleet could endanger procurement project, experts warn

OTTAWA - Multiple defence experts warn that splitting Canada's lucrative submarine contract between two suppliers would create risks for the navy — and likely would weaken Ottawa's negotiating position.

Paul Mitchell, a professor of defence studies at Canadian Forces College, said modern submarines are as complex as spacecraft or F1 racers — and that's a good reason to avoid complicating the purchase by setting up two separate supply lines and parts inventories.