The Department of National Defence has awarded Irving Shipbuilding an $8 billion deal to build three new destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy, marking the largest and most complex shipbuilding project in Canada since World War II. The initiative is expected to create over 5,000 jobs in Halifax and throughout the country. The $8 billion covers the initial six years of construction work on the three “River-class” destroyers, with the total estimated cost reaching $22.2 billion. Defence Minister Bill Blair emphasized the importance of investing in Canada’s shipbuilding industry to equip the Navy with modern and versatile ships for domestic and international peacekeeping efforts.
The new destroyers will be named His Majesty’s Canadian Ships Fraser, Saint-Laurent, and Mackenzie, named after Canada’s significant waterways connecting the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic oceans. Royal Canadian Navy Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee praised the contract, highlighting the enhanced capacity and combat capabilities these new ships will offer. The warships will be based on the BAE Systems’ Type 26 design being constructed in the UK and Australia. They will feature advanced sensors, radar, weapons systems, and will carry a military CH-148 Cyclone helicopter on deck.
The announcement of the destroyer project was made on a weekend when Parliament was not in session and amid speculation of a potential snap spring election. The contract will also include the development and delivery of training, spares, and maintenance products necessary to support the new ships in service. The government plans to construct a new land-based testing facility in Halifax to support the new ships throughout their missions, with construction beginning this summer and set to be completed by 2027. Irving Shipbuilding Inc. President Dirk Lesko hailed the contract as a significant milestone for the company and Canada, providing stability for the workforce responsible for designing, building, and maintaining Canada’s surface fleet.
The new destroyers are part of Canada’s efforts to strengthen its naval capabilities and support the Royal Canadian Navy in defending against adversaries and contributing to global security. By investing in domestic shipbuilding, the government aims to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and ensure that the Navy is equipped with the necessary assets to fulfill its duties at sea. The $22 billion estimated cost includes all necessary equipment, ammunition, and weapons systems for the three new ships. The project is expected to not only enhance Canada’s naval fleet but also reinforce the country’s commitment to maintaining peace and security both locally and internationally.
This significant investment in naval capabilities underscores Canada’s commitment to modernizing its military assets and equipping the Navy with state-of-the-art vessels to fulfill its operational mandates effectively. The new destroyers are poised to enhance Canada’s maritime surveillance, combat, and defense capabilities, ensuring that the country can respond to security threats and challenges on the seas. The construction of these ships also represents a boost to the Canadian shipbuilding industry, providing long-term support for workers and ensuring the continued growth of the sector. This milestone project marks a significant advancement in Canada’s defense strategy and underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering national security and defense capabilities for the benefit of all Canadians.
Overall, the awarding of the $8 billion contract to Irving Shipbuilding to construct three new destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy is a substantial investment in Canada’s naval capabilities. The project is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance the Navy’s ability to defend against threats and contribute to peacekeeping efforts globally. The new destroyers will be equipped with advanced technology and weapons systems, highlighting Canada’s commitment to modernizing its military assets and supporting the men and women in uniform. Additionally, the construction of a new testing facility in Halifax demonstrates the government’s dedication to ensuring that the new ships are well-supported throughout their missions. This initiative represents a significant milestone for Canada’s shipbuilding industry and reinforces the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and capable naval fleet for the future.
