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HMCS Fredericton sets sail for Cuba, for the first time in 50 years

For the first time in more than half a century, a Royal Canadian Navy ship will be visiting the Caribbean nation of Cuba.

Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Fredericton departed from Canadian shores on Nov. 18 for a deployment to Central and South America, including a stop in Havana, Cuba.

“Since the 18th century, Canada and Cuba have enjoyed a strong, positive, and productive relationship as friends and partners. As Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Fredericton sets sail for Havana as part of her efforts to strengthen bilateral and multinational defence partnerships in the Americas, we proudly recognize the Royal Canadian Navy’s rich connections with the navies of the Americas,” said Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence.

Cuba will not be the only stop for the ship, however, which also plans to stop in Cartagena, Colombia, and Veracruz, Mexico, in an effort to enhance mutual understanding, cooperation, and capacity with partners in the region.

“Visiting the Americas is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate Canadian leadership, strengthen relationships with defence partners, and showcase the capabilities of the Royal Canadian Navy. Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Fredericton and the ship’s company are excellent representatives of Canada and your Navy. This deployment will provide everyone with a valuable opportunity to engage our partners and enhance mutual understanding and respect,” stated VAdm. Ron Lloyd, Commander Royal Canadian Navy.

The deployment is aimed at strengthening existing partnerships and establishing new bi-national and multination relations for the future.

HMCS Fredericton sets sail with a Sea King helicopter that will be conducting operations and high profile visits to Cuba, Columbia, and Mexico.

HMCS Fredericton recently returned from a successful six-month deployment in the Mediterranean Sea on Op Reassurance.

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Mishall Rehman

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Mishall is a freelance journalist pursuing her passion for writing in her new homeland Canada. She currently lives in Trenton, ON with her husband.

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