ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the debate over the manner in which nonproliferation concerns—whether of Canada, the global community, or the US—can both be affected by and have an effect upon the Canadian nuclear-propelled attack submarines (SSNs) program. It deals with a summary of some relevant matters related to the functioning of the international nonproliferation regime. Significantly, among the reasons adduced by the opponents of the Canadian SSN program, one encounters few objections based on the desire to maintain inviolate US nonproliferation policy. However, those who do maintain the position that the Canadian SSN proposal must have negative precedential significance do so precisely because they view Canada as an exemplary nonproliferator. Despite being overlooked in the early stages of the SSN proposal, the nonproliferation question has attained a level of importance that has required policymakers to give it close attention.
