The Victoria-class submarines are a class of diesel-electric submarines used by the Royal Canadian Navy. They were designed in the 1980s and are based on the Upholder-class submarines originally built for the Royal Navy. The class consists of four submarines, which were acquired by Canada in 1998 and underwent significant upgrades to enhance their capabilities. These submarines are known for their stealth and versatility, allowing them to perform various missions, including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and surveillance. The Victoria-class submarines are equipped with advanced sonar systems and can operate in both coastal and open ocean environments, making them a vital asset for Canada's maritime defense.