The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has officially accepted its sixth and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV).
His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Robert Hampton Gray was handed over on Thursday at Halifax Shipyard.
The ship is named after a Canadian naval officer who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during the Second World War.
The delivery completes the Navy’s fleet of Arctic patrol ships, which began entering service in 2021.
The vessels have since taken part in operations across the globe, including deployments to the Caribbean, the Arctic and Antarctica.
Beyond Arctic patrols, the ships have supported Canadian communities during emergencies.
Designed to operate in icy waters, the ships are part of Canada’s effort to strengthen its presence in the North and support international missions.
Their construction is also a key part of the federal government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, which aims to revitalize the marine industry and equip the Canadian Armed Forces with modern tools.
Following delivery, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray will undergo sea trials, including warm and cold weather testing and post-delivery evaluations.
The ship is expected to be commissioned in 2026, when it arrives at its home port in Esquimalt, British Columbia.
Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, said the delivery of the final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel is a major step forward.
“The acceptance of our final Arctic and Offshore Patrol ship is a key development for the Royal Canadian Navy as it completes the delivery of the first new class of ships in over 25 years and highlights the success of our national shipbuilding strategy,” Topshee said.
Defence Minister David J. McGuinty said the complete fleet is ready to patrol Canada’s waters and defend national sovereignty.
“These ships strengthen Canada’s ability to protect our interests at home and abroad, and they give our sailors the modern tools they need to do their job,” McGuinty said.
Commander Brian Henwood, who will lead the crew of HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, said the team is ready to begin sea trials.
“We have been eagerly anticipating our upcoming sea trials, where our work as sailors really begins,” Henwood said.
The ship will join the Canadian Fleet Pacific once commissioned, allowing the Navy to patrol Arctic waters from both coasts.
