Our Navy Today - Volume 7 Issue 3

HMCS Montréal sets sail for Op Horizon 

On April 15, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal, along with its CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, set sail from Halifax, Nova Scotia, beginning a six-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific region as part of Operation Horizon. 

HMCS Montréal is the first of three Royal Canadian Navy warships that will be deploying this year on Op Horizon. This deployment will focus on joint exercises and diplomatic efforts for regional security. 

The crew will work with international allies to strengthen relationships and promote stability in the region aligning with Canada’s broader strategy.  

HMCS Margaret Brooke departs for Op Caribbe

On April 18, HMCS Margaret Brooke departed from Halifax, N.S. for a nine-week deployment on Operation Caribbe in the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. 

While deployed, the crew of Margaret Brooke will join Exercise Tradewinds 2024, a major annual exercise led by the U.S. to bolster partnerships, promote human rights and enhance interoperability in Central America and the Caribbean. This exercise involves over 1,500 personnel from 22 allied and partner nations.

Operation Caribbe and Exercise Tradewinds 2024 represent crucial initiatives in combating illicit trafficking and strengthening maritime security in the region. Margaret Brooke's participation highlights Canada's commitment to international cooperation and maritime safety. 

Canadian-led task force seizes 4,917 kg of narcotics

On April 14, the Canadian-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 concluded Focused Operation Crimson Barracuda intercepting 4,917 kg of narcotics in 7 days. 

The week-long operation involved the Indian, British and United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard. Together, they successfully coordinated four drug interdictions which included methamphetamines, heroin, amphetamines and hashish. 

“Crimson Barracuda was a great success for CTF 150, which can be attributed to the strong cooperation between Combined Maritime Forces member nations,” said Captain (Navy) Colin Matthews, Commander CTF 150. “It proves the value in working as multilateral team to deter and disrupt criminal and terrorist activities at sea.” 

HMCS Max Bernays arrives in Esquimalt 

On April 15, after 36 days at sea, HMCS Max Bernays has arrived in its new homeport of Esquimalt, British Columbia.  

The arrival marks a significant milestone as the first Harry-DeWolf-class vessel to permanently join Canada’s Pacific Fleet, boosting our support for communities like Kugluktuk and Cambridge Bay. The ship's presence will enhance safety and security in the Arctic by aiding in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. 

The crew of Max Bernays will soon join HMC Ships Vancouver, Edmonton and Yellowknife, along with Motor Vessel Asterix, in Task Group Exercise 24-01. This exercise aims to improve tactical skills for upcoming deployments to the Arctic region. 

HMCS Max Bernays will be formally commissioned in May, honoring Chief Petty Officer Max Bernays, a naval hero. 

Bravo Zulu to all involved for making this smooth coastal transfer, and a warm welcome home to HMCS Max Bernays! 

Steward occupation retirement update 

As the Steward occupation's retirement in April 2026 approaches, Stewards have transitioned to shore establishments to better support their intended career transition plans. 

Stewards of all ranks have met with Personnel Selection Officers and are receiving advice and assistance to inform their desired career outcomes.   

The work ethic and dedication demonstrated by Stewards has been integral to the RCN’s success. Plans are underway for a commemorative ceremony in the summer of 2025 to honor the legacy of this occupation, marking the end of an era in Canadian naval history.

Maritime Security Operation Centers celebrate 20^th anniversary

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Canada's Maritime Security Operation Centers (MSOCs).

In 2004 two MSOCs were created on the East and West Coasts to enhance maritime intelligence and collaboration. A third was added in 2005 in the Great Lakes region.

For two decades, these centers have been crucial in protecting Canada’s maritime interests with their ability to collect, analyze and share information about maritime activities and threats to enable decision making. 

They’ve provided significant contributions to the operational readiness of the RCN and other stakeholders domestically and internationally. 

HMCS William Hall successfully completes cold weather trials 

HMCS William Hall recently concluded Cold Weather Trials in the Labrador Sea between St. Johns and Hamilton Inlet. The trials, held from March 4 to 14, 2024, aimed to test the ship's systems in extreme cold.

The crew verified the functionality of all ship systems, from navigation equipment to deck gear, ensuring their performance in extremely cold environments.

The ship navigated through extensive light and medium first-year ice. The crew also addressed initial issues with the freshwater cooling system.