HMCS Ottawa returns from Operations HORIZON and NEON

From: National Defence

News release

March 24, 2025 – Esquimalt, B.C. – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Today, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa returned to its home port of Esquimalt, British Columbia, having completed its five-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region under Operations HORIZON and NEON.

As part of Operation HORIZON, HMCS Ottawa and its crew conducted multinational exercises and maneuvers with Japan, the United States, the Republic of Korea, France, Australia, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the United Kingdom and the Philippines. They participated in discussions on Women, Peace, and Security and conducted a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity with the Philippines, held a port visit in Cambodia offering important first aid training to Cambodian forces, and participated in the French-led carrier strike group Exercise LA PEROUSE led by the French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle.

During Operation NEON, HMCS Ottawa’s crew identified and reported five vessels of interest—vessels that have, or are suspected of having, engaged in activity contrary to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) imposed sanctions against North Korea.

Canada’s routine presence in the Indo-Pacific region demonstrates our commitment to supporting peace, security, and stability in the region. The most recent actions and international engagements executed by the crew of HMCS Ottawa have shown Canada to be a reliable and capable international security partner.

Quotes

“As His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Ottawa’s deployment in support of Operations HORIZON and NEON comes to an end, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the crew. Your commitment, dedication, teamwork and resilience have been extraordinary. The success of this mission is thanks to your tireless efforts and your families’ and friends’ unwavering support. Welcome home!”

Rear-Admiral Christopher Robinson, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific and Commander Joint Task Force Pacific

“His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Ottawa’s deployment exemplifies Canada’s ability to operate alongside our allies and partners, reinforcing our commitment to sustain a robust naval presence in critical global regions. The exceptional performance of the crew during the five-month mission has made a meaningful contribution to global peace and stability, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Operations like HORIZON and NEON are essential to the Royal Canadian Navy’s mission, advancing Canada’s strategic priorities and supporting international security.

Commander Landon Creasy, Commanding Officer HMCS Ottawa

Quick facts

  • Operation HORIZON is Canada’s ongoing forward presence mission to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

  • Operation NEON is Canada’s contribution to a coordinated multinational effort to support the implementation of UNSC sanctions imposed against North Korea. This operation demonstrates the importance that Canada places on security in the Indo-Pacific region and upholding the UNSC sanctions regime, and Canada’s resolve in standing with allies and partners in accordance with our values.

  • HMCS Ottawa, a Halifax-class Canadian Patrol Frigate, has a crew of approximately 240 RCN sailors as well as Royal Canadian Air Force aviators who fly and support the ship’s embarked CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopter.

Associated links

Contacts

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-904-3333
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

Search for related information by keyword: Military | National Defence | Canada | National security and defence | general public | news releases

Page details

Date modified: