In this episode of Vanguard Radio, host J. Richard Jones sits down with Sheldon Gillis, MSC, CD, CPSP Campaign Lead at Babcock Canada, for a deep and timely conversation about what’s next for Canada’s submarine future—and why sustainment is just as important as the platform itself.
With over 25 years of distinguished service in the Royal Canadian Navy—including command at sea, operational deployments across the globe, leadership roles in the Arctic, and senior oversight of naval requirements—Sheldon brings unparalleled insight into what it takes to deliver a modern, sovereign, and mission-ready submarine capability.
Together, they explore the major developments shaping the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), including the recently announced Teaming Agreement between Babcock Canada and Hanwha Ocean. This landmark partnership positions Babcock as the exclusive In-Service Support partner to Hanwha Ocean, uniting world-class submarine design and build expertise with Canada’s only proven, industry-led submarine sustainment enterprise.
Listeners will hear Sheldon unpack:
· Why sustainment must be integrated from Day One, in parallel with submarine construction
· How Babcock’s 17 years of experience sustaining the Victoria-class fleet will translate into value, readiness, and reliability for CPSP
· The advantages of Hanwha Ocean’s in-service KSS-III submarine—a platform already operating globally
· The long-term regional and economic impact CPSP could deliver across Canada, including jobs, innovation, and STEM development
· What accountability and availability truly mean in designing a future-focused enterprise
· How Babcock’s integrated sustainment approach supports a sovereign, Canadian solution that endures for generations
From operational realities at sea to the industrial partnerships required on land, this is a comprehensive look at how Canada can build not just a submarine fleet—but a lasting national capability.
Whether you’re tracking CPSP, following defence industry developments, or simply interested in how major national projects take shape, this episode offers expert insight into one of the most consequential defence procurements of our time.
Tune in to Vanguard Radio for a deep dive into delivering an all-encompassing and sovereign Canadian sustainment solution.