OTTAWA – South Korean firm Hanwha Oceans has enlisted the services of former TV news anchor Peter Mansbridge to lend his voice to an advertisement as the company seeks to secure a multi-billion-dollar procurement contract from the Canadian government. This strategic move comes as Hanwha competes with German submarine manufacturer TKMS for a significant contract to supply Canada with up to 12 new submarines.
In a recently released video on Hanwha's YouTube channel, Mansbridge, renowned for his long-standing role as the voice of CBC's The National, promotes the KSS-III submarine, emphasizing its reliability and proven capabilities. His involvement in such promotional activities marks a notable shift since he transitioned from daily news broadcasting nearly a decade ago.
Now hosting a podcast titled The Bridge, Mansbridge explains that his company has expanded into strategic communications, collaborating with various companies and institutions. He also expresses a commitment to philanthropy, stating that he donates a “significant portion” of the proceeds from his work to universities and charitable organizations across Canada.
To bolster its presence in the Canadian market, Hanwha has been actively engaging in advertising campaigns. Recently, ads promoting its KSS-III submarine have been appearing across Ottawa, aimed at making the firm a recognizable name in the capital. This initiative is part of Hanwha’s broader strategy to secure a foothold in Canada's defense sector.
Furthermore, the competitive landscape for the procurement contract is heating up, with Hanwha Oceans and TKMS positioning themselves to meet the Canadian Navy's requirements. The ongoing efforts by both companies indicate a robust interest in modernizing Canada's submarine fleet, a critical area of concern for national defense.
This report was first published on March 9, 2026, by The Canadian Press and highlights the intersection of media, defense procurement, and corporate strategy in contemporary Canada. As the bidding process unfolds, the roles played by influential figures like Mansbridge may significantly shape public perception and decision-making surrounding military contracts.
