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Op PROJECTION ~ HMCS Montréal and MV Asterix Deploy

Library image of HMCS Montréal [© DND Canada]

His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal and Motor Vessel (MV) Asterix depart to the Indo-Pacific to deploy on Operation PROJECTION.

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Press Release, Ottawa, 26 March 2023: Today, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal, a Halifax-class frigate, departed its home port of Halifax and is now en route to the Indo-Pacific region – delivering on the commitment in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy to annually deploy an additional frigate to the region from Canadian Forces Base Halifax. As Minister Anand announced in November 2022, Canada is increasing its annual naval deployments in the region from two to three frigates, and the deployment of this additional frigate from the East Coast will boost our presence, particularly in the Indian Ocean.

During its deployment, HMCS Montréal will be supported by Naval Replenishment Unit Motor Vessel (MV) Asterix, also based in Halifax. Two other Canadian frigates are set to deploy to the region on later dates.

HMCS Montréal, with an embarked CH-148 Cyclone helicopter detachment, is the first East Coast frigate to deploy on Operation PROJECTION in the Indo-Pacific region. During the deployment, the ship will work in close coordination with partner and allied nations maritime forces, promoting peace and stability in support of the rules-based international order.

In addition to Operation PROJECTION, HMCS Montréal will also participate in Operation NEON, Canada’s contribution to multinational efforts to monitor sanctions imposed on North Korea by the United Nations Security Council.

“Canada is a Pacific country, and the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region are of paramount importance to our future. By boosting our annual naval deployments from two to three frigates, Canada is reaffirming its commitment to allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. As outlined in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, Canada will continue to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. I wish our sailors fair winds and following seas.” The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence.

“The sailors and aviators of the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force are tremendous ambassadors to promote and enhance interoperability alongside the navies of our closest allies and international partners in the Middle Eastern waters and Indo-Pacific region. Their excellence at sea will demonstrate our capabilities in the region and will directly contribute to the strategic interests of Canada.” Rear-Admiral Brian Santarpia, Commander Maritime Component Command.

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