Ottawa: Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Kim Kyung-ryul is preparing to depart for Canada this week in an effort to enhance arms cooperation between the South Korean and Canadian navies. This visit coincides with South Korea's intensified campaign to secure a substantial Canadian submarine bid.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Adm. Kim's visit, scheduled from Thursday to May 29, includes meetings with Vice Adm. Angus Topshee, the nominee for Canada's vice chief of defense staff. Discussions will focus on expanding bilateral cooperation in both military and arms sectors. The visit is timely as South Korea is competing with Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems for a Canadian submarine procurement project valued at approximately 60 trillion won (US$41 billion) to deliver up to 12 submarines. The final decision on the contractor is anticipated in June.

During his Canadian visit, Adm. Kim will also engage in talks with Rear Adm. Dan Charlebois, nominated as the commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, and Rear Adm. David Patchell, commander of Maritime Forces Pacific. A notable event during the trip will be a ceremony in Victoria marking the arrival of the ROKS Dosan Ahn Chang-ho naval submarine, which began its journey from Jinhae, South Korea, on March 25. This deployment represents a milestone as the first trans-Pacific mission and the longest journey undertaken by a South Korean submarine.

The 3,000-ton submarine's mission includes participating in joint drills with the Canadian Navy and joining the U.S.-led Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) in June before its return to South Korea. Additionally, Adm. Kim will attend Canada's premier defense and security exhibition in Ottawa on May 27-28. This event will provide an opportunity to engage with key Canadian officials and promote South Korean defense products.