UNB strengthens defence innovation through Hanwha Ocean partnership
Author: Tim Jaques
Posted on Mar 6, 2026
Category: UNB Fredericton , UNB Saint John
The University of New Brunswick has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd. to advance research in marine and defence technologies.
The signing took place on March 5 in Ottawa.
“As a Canadian leader in marine research and education, the University of New Brunswick is proud to partner with Hanwha on this important collaboration,” said Dr. Paul J. Mazerolle, UNB president and vice chancellor, who signed for the university.
“This agreement creates meaningful opportunities for applied research and hands-on student engagement in advanced marine and defence technologies. By aligning our academic expertise with global industry leadership, we will strengthen Canada’s maritime innovation ecosystem and long-term industrial capacity.”
Hanwha Ocean produces commercial vessels, offshore platforms and naval vessels, including submarines, and is a global force in the shipbuilding and marine sectors.
It is one of two finalists in the competition to supply Canada with up to 12 new conventionally powered submarines capable of Arctic operations under the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project. The government will choose the supplier this year.
The MOU establishes co-operation in research, innovation and education in areas that include:
- AI-enabled naval and maritime systems;
- Digital and simulation technologies;
- Underwater acoustic and stealth technologies;
- Arctic-capable vessel technologies; and
- Intelligent and automated technologies for crew reduction.
Glenn Copeland, CEO, Hanwha Defence Canada, emphasized the importance of the relationship.
"The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project represents an opportunity to build long-term partnerships that deliver real value for Canada. Through these agreements, we are strengthening domestic capabilities, supporting regional economic development and helping build a future-ready Canadian defence workforce," he said.
"By combining Canada's advanced technologies with Korea's proven submarine manufacturing expertise, we believe we can deliver a solution aligned with Canada's national interests."
UNB's proven record of achievement
For decades, UNB has built a strong record in defence-related research and innovation that supports national security and aligns with key priorities set out in Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy.
Relevant research at UNB spans many fields. Cybersecurity remains a deep strength, anchored by the internationally renowned Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity. As well, UNB researchers have long worked with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) on marine and underwater systems, including unmanned underwater vehicle launch and recovery, subsea mapping and autonomous underwater vehicles. Physics teams contribute to over-the-horizon radar and ionospheric science with DRDC, which strengthens Canada's awareness in the Arctic and other remote regions.
UNB also advances naval and defence capability through the Marine Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence with Irving Shipbuilding, which supports Arctic and offshore patrol ships. Other areas include mixed reality for military use, nuclear engineering linked to critical infrastructure and research into multi‑layered security.
The university's decades-old close relationship with nearby Base Gagetown reflects a local connection to national defence needs and the long presence of defence work on our campuses and in the region.
As defence continues to grow as a national priority, UNB remains committed to strengthening relationships with its longstanding partners and welcoming new collaborations to help keep Canada secure.
"I look forward to seeing how we can collaborate with Hanwha Ocean on the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project," said Dr. Kelly Scott-Storey, associate vice president, research, innovation & partnerships.
"We're proud to see this recognition of the reputation we have built—a reputation of research excellence that supports defence needs."
Photo: Dr. Paul J. Mazerolle, UNB president and vice chancellor, left, and Charlie SC Eoh, the president and COO of Naval Ship Business for Hanwha Ocean, after signing the MOU in Ottawa on March 5.