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Modern arctic units for the Canadian Coast Guard

The Canadian coast guard (CCG) is strengthening its fleet with modern arctic and offshore patrol ships (AOPS), currently under construction at Irving Shipbuilding Inc. in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The first vessel, built under the national shipbuilding strategy, is entering a crucial phase of construction, heralding a new era in maritime operations in arctic and coastal waters.

A red and gray ship hull under construction inside a shipyard hall surrounded by scaffolding
fot. Canadian Coast Guard

In brief

The Canadian Coast Guard is strengthening its fleet with Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) built at the Irving Shipbuilding Inc. shipyard in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The vessels are designed for icebreaking, scientific research, humanitarian assistance and servicing navigation systems, with a reinforced hull structure for operations in Arctic conditions. Construction of the AOPS is part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy fleet modernisation programme. The first ship of the class, HMCS Harry DeWolf, has already entered service with the Royal Canadian Navy, while Margaret Brooke, Max Bernays and William Hall are under construction or in planning.

The new vessels are designed with versatility and flexibility in mind, enabling them to perform a wide range of tasks – from icebreaking and scientific research to humanitarian assistance and navigation system maintenance. With state-of-the-art technologies and reinforced hull construction, the ships will be capable of operating in harsh arctic conditions, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of the Canadian coast guard's operations.

The AOPS construction is part of a broader fleet modernization program under the national shipbuilding strategy, aimed at enhancing CCG's operational capabilities and supporting Canada's shipbuilding industry. The first vessel of this class, HMCS Harry DeWolf, has already entered service with the Royal Canadian Navy, while subsequent units – Margaret Brooke, Max Bernays, and William Hall – are in various stages of construction or planning.

The introduction of these new vessels is crucial for maintaining Canada's presence in the far north and protecting the marine environment in the face of ongoing climate change. The new patrol ships will enable CCG to respond more effectively to threats, conduct scientific research, and support communities living in arctic regions.

The modern arctic units represent a significant step in building a future fleet capable of meeting the growing challenges related to maritime security and environmental protection in Canadian waters.

Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier

Kamil Kusier executive editor All articles by this author →

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