Mishall RehmanHMCS Fredericton deployed to the Black Sea on a NATO-led Maritime Assurance Activities on April 1st. The ship will be participating in Operation REASSURANCE, the CAF’s ongoing effort to provide stability and security in Central and Eastern Europe.
“HMCS Fredericton’s deployment to the Black Sea is one of many examples of Canada’s continued commitment to promoting security and stability in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as our resolute support for NATO’s collective defence. Canada’s participation in regional maritime security operations re-affirms that Canada’s Navy is a responsive, effective force in today’s maritime security environment,” said Harjit Sajjan, Minister of Defence.
HMCS Fredericton is the lead to Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) Task Unit 02. Their mission involves surveillance, reconnaissance and monitoring operations of migrant crossings in the Aegean Sea. Throughout April, the ship will conduct operations alongside the Romanian Frigate ROS Regina Maria and other allied ships from Bulgaria and Turkey to enhance their interoperability and develop familiarity, trust and confidence amongst the alliance nations.
During its deployment, HMCS Fredericton will conduct port visits to extend a diplomatic hand and improve defence relations with partners in the region. The CAF believes recurring naval operations in this region of the world demonstrates solidarity towards Canadian allies and partner nations.
“Since joining Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG 2) in January, HMCS Fredericton has had the opportunity to operate alongside a number of our allies in the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. Moving our operations into the Black Sea will not change our objectives but will give the HMCS Fredericton an opportunity to work with key Black Sea-based partners. Fredericton’s ship’s company is very much looking forward to operating in this complex region,” said Commander Trevor MacLean, Commanding Officer of HMCS Fredericton.
