The Halifax-class frigate set sail from its homeport in Halifax on March 26 and is currently en route to the Indo-Pacific region.
This deployment fulfills Canada’s commitment, as stated in its Indo-Pacific Strategy, to annually send an extra frigate to the region from Canadian Forces Base Halifax.
During its deployment, HMCS Montréal will be supported by Naval Replenishment Unit Motor Vessel (MV) Asterix, also based in Halifax. As announced by Minister Anand in November 2022, two other Canadian frigates are set to deploy to the region on later dates.
HMCS Montréal, which has a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter detachment on board, is the first East Coast frigate to be deployed in operation Projection in the Indo-Pacific region. Throughout the mission, the vessel will collaborate closely with the naval forces of allied and partner nations to promote peace and stability in support of the rules-based international order.
Furthermore, HMCS Montréal will take part in operation Neon, which is Canada’s contribution to the multinational endeavor aimed at monitoring the United Nations Security Council’s sanctions against North Korea.
Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence, said “The security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region are crucial to Canada’s future, as we are a Pacific nation. By increasing our yearly naval deployments from two to three frigates, Canada is reiterating its dedication to our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy emphasizes the importance of promoting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, which we will continue to support. I extend my best wishes to our sailors for a safe and successful mission ahead.”
HMCS Montréal is designed to carry a wide array of anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare weapons and sensors in addition to their anti-air warfare defenses.
