Canada launches first Arctic offshore patrol vessel for Coast Guard
In Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada has marked the launch of CCGS Donjek, the first of two Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships being built for the Canadian Coast Guard under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
In brief
CCGS Donjek, the first of two Arctic and offshore patrol vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard, has been launched in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The vessel is being built under the National Shipbuilding Strategy and will be used for fisheries patrols, environmental protection, SAR operations and logistical and humanitarian support. Delivery of CCGS Donjek into service is planned after sea trials at the end of 2026, and the second vessel of the series, CCGS Sermilik, is due to be delivered in 2027. The AOPS programme builds on experience from constructing six vessels for the Royal Canadian Navy.
Multi-mission design for harsh environments
The vessel is designed as a flexible, multi-role platform capable of supporting fisheries enforcement, conservation and protection operations, search and rescue missions, and humanitarian assistance along Canada’s vast coastline and Arctic regions.
A modular mission layout, combined with modern communications systems and onboard medical facilities, allows the ship to be rapidly reconfigured for evolving operational requirements.
Strengthening Arctic operational presence
The Donjek is intended to significantly enhance Canada’s ability to operate in remote northern waters. Its design emphasizes endurance, interoperability, and sustained operations in ice-prone environments, reflecting the increasing strategic importance of the Arctic domain.
The vessel also supports scientific research, aids to navigation, and emergency response tasks, reinforcing the Coast Guard’s role as a multi-purpose maritime service operator.
Fleet renewal under national strategy
Following post-trial delivery expected in late 2026, the second vessel in the class, CCGS Sermilik, is scheduled for completion in 2027.
The program builds on lessons learned from the Royal Canadian Navy’s Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships, enabling improved construction efficiency and systems integration across the new Coast Guard variant.
Industrial and strategic implications
The launch also underscores Canada’s long-term commitment to domestic shipbuilding capacity and Arctic sovereignty, with Irving Shipbuilding continuing as a central industrial partner in the national naval procurement framework.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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