Canada is enhancing its presence in the Arctic by deploying military assets and personnel to protect its regional interests throughout the summer until early fall of 2025.
The initiative, supported by the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, will initially deploy the Halifax-class frigate HMCS Regina and the Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and offshore patrol vessel HMCS Max Bernays in the Western Arctic region. This deployment aims to improve Canada’s awareness and understanding of maritime activities in the Arctic.
An Agile Force for Support
Additionally, the Canadian Rangers and Canadian Army will field an agile force to support several RCAF aviators and aircraft, including the CC-138 Twin Otter and CH-147F Chinook, in the Northern Arctic region. This will provide the Canadian Armed Forces with real-time reconnaissance and response capabilities.
In the Eastern Arctic region, Ottawa plans to deploy AOPV HMCS William Hall to better understand the area’s waterways.
Protecting Freedom in the Arctic
“Operating continually in the Canadian Arctic and its approaches is vital to strengthening Canada’s ability to deter potential threats and assert our sovereignty,” said Gen. Jennie Carignan, chief of the Defence Staff. “By enhancing our domain awareness in the North, we ensure that the Canadian Armed Forces remains ready to defend Canada and the North American continent.”
Canada’s initiative follows the French Ministry of Armed Forces’ launch of a new strategy to secure its Arctic interests and ensure freedom of navigation in the region. NATO also recently initiated operations in the area as part of its mission to protect peace, stability and freedom of navigation.
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