Former RCN officer to lead Hanwha’s push for Canada’s next submarine fleet

January 21, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Hanwha Group has formally entered the Canadian defense market with the launch of Hanwha Defence Canada in Ottawa, appointing former Royal Canadian Navy officer Glenn Copeland as Managing Director and CEO.

As informed, Copeland will lead Hanwha Ocean’s expansion in Canada, overseeing defence and naval business activities as the company advances its participation in the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), for which Hanwha Ocean has been shortlisted as one of the final contenders.

In August 2025, the Government of Canada confirmed Hanwha Ocean as a qualified supplier for the CPSP, based on its KSS-III submarine design. The programme aims to deliver up to 12 submarines to modernise the Royal Canadian Navy and strengthen Canada’s long-term maritime sovereignty across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic.

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Vessels

Copeland’s appointment reflects Hanwha’s strategy of embedding experienced local leadership as it deepens long-term industrial and defence cooperation with Canada, reinforcing its commitment not only to the CPSP but also to sustained engagement with Canada’s naval, industrial, and security communities.

Prior to joining Hanwha, Copeland served as General Manager of Lockheed Martin Canada, where he was involved in major programs, including the Halifax-class frigate modernization, and gained extensive experience in the business development and international export of the CMS-330 combat management system. He began his career in the Royal Canadian Navy, serving for 22 years.