According to information published on March 10, 2025, by the Canadian Daily Newspaper Ottawa Citizen, a delegation of a dozen South Korean defense industry and government officials visited Ottawa on March 5 and 6, 2025, to discuss potential defense equipment sales with the Canadian government. The delegation presented a range of proposals, including the supply of advanced K9 howitzers, training aircraft, rocket launchers, and submarines, as part of South Korea’s broader effort to enhance military cooperation with Canada.
This visit comes on the heels of a significant announcement from the Canadian government, which recently initiated the procurement process for its Indirect Fires Modernisation (IFM) program. This program is aimed at bolstering the capabilities of Canada’s land forces, with a particular focus on acquiring new artillery systems. The inclusion of South Korea in the bidding process marks a potential shift away from traditional American suppliers, amid strained political relations between the United States and Canada, exacerbated by former US President Donald Trump’s controversial rhetoric and policies during his tenure. The ongoing deterioration in political relations between the two North American neighbors has created an opening for South Korea to offer its cutting-edge K9 Thunder 155mm self-propelled howitzer as a replacement for American combat equipment under the IFM program.
South Korea’s offer to Canada also aligns with the current trend of diversifying military equipment sources, as Canada looks to reduce its reliance on American defense suppliers. This move could potentially allow Canada to strengthen its defense ties with South Korea, a country with a strong track record in producing high-quality, battle-tested military systems.
In light of the ongoing tensions between Canada and the United States, the South Korean offer presents a strategic opportunity for Canada to diversify its defense procurement. The K9 self-propelled howitzer is not only a proven and reliable artillery system but also an opportunity for Canada to strengthen its defense relationships with South Korea, a partner with shared democratic values and security interests.
The South Korean delegation’s visit to Ottawa is seen as a step toward deepening the bilateral defense cooperation between Canada and South Korea, and it could open the door for further sales of advanced defense equipment, including air defense systems, missile launchers, and other key technologies.