Canada’s Silent Service: The Cultural Evolution and Operational Success of the Canadian Submarine Service (1965–1995)

Abstract

From 1965 to 1995, the Canadian Submarine Service developed a distinct culture shaped by international influences of the Royal Navy and the United States Navy. This thesis argues that this evolving culture played a pivotal role in the service's operational success. Through an analysis of historical records and firsthand accounts, this study examines how cultural factors contributed to the operational effectiveness of the service. The first chapter explores the establishment of the Canadian Submarine Service, tracing its early reliance on foreign training and the subsequent effects on culture. The second chapter explores the symbols and shared values that shaped the service's culture, including common beliefs and the perception of submariners as an elite force. The third chapter investigates the role of leadership in shaping and reinforcing this culture, assessing two case studies. The first case study highlighted the effects of exemplary leadership whereas the second case showed the effects of poor leadership on board Canadian submarines. Finally, the fourth chapter analyzes the transition to greater operational autonomy, highlighting how cultural foundations enabled the Canadian Submarine Service to assert its independence while maintaining high standards of performance. Ultimately, the findings support the hypothesis that culture was a decisive factor in the service’s success. The study underscores the importance of organizational culture in military effectiveness and offers insight into how cultural identity can influence operational outcomes.