Every post I've seen in reputable Canadian defence forums points to a foreign build, but with a robust build up of domestic maintenance capabilities. These 12 subs are referred to often as "interim", with the long-term (post 2050) goal the acquisition of nuclear boats, or possibly some other technology that allows for long-distance high-speed submerged travel. There is nothing new here. This is a capability that the RCN wants (and has wanted for 40 years), but the middle step of developing a largish professional submarine cadre and fleet was felt to be more reachable than jumping straight into nuclear. Also much more affordable.