CMFMAG TeamAbove image: HMCS MONTREAL sails the Mediterranean Sea during Operation REASSURANCE, on June 2nd, 2022. Photo by: Corporal Braden Trudeau Canadian Armed Forces Imagery Technician.
His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montreal’s crew bid farewell to their loved ones at a departure ceremony at HMCS Scotian in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on April 14th.
The departure of HMCS Montreal represents the first of three Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) warships annually deployed under Operation HORIZON in support of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.
Enduring Commitment to Indo-Pacific Region
This deployment demonstrates an enduring commitment to the Indo-Pacific region and enhances Canada’s role as an international security partner, said Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic and Commander Joint Task Force Atlantic.
“The departure of HMCS Montreal represents the significant work and dedication of the Atlantic Fleet in promoting security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. As the first ship to deploy on Operation HORIZON this year, the sailors and aviators on board HMCS Montreal will collaborate with our international partners, contribute towards regional security, and strengthen the strategic interests of Canada. I know Montreal’s mission will reflect positively on the RCN and wish the crew a safe and successful deployment. Fair winds!”
Reinforce Ties with International Allies
Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, emphasized that through Operation HORIZON, the HMCS Montreal will reinforce ties with international allies and strengthen relationships with like-minded nations by integrating with partner navies, participating in training exercises, and engaging in military and diplomatic cooperation.
Commander Travis Bain, Commanding Officer HMCS Montreal, said the ship’s company of HMCS Montreal had been diligently preparing for Operation HORIZON.
“I have the utmost confidence in their ability to display excellence at sea and enhance interoperability with allied navies. I must also thank the families of our crew, who are the heart of our forces. Without their continued support, we would not be able to accomplish what is required of us. So, I thank you for all your efforts in preparation for this departure.”
Departure Delayed Due to Problem
HMCS Montreal is a Halifax Class Frigate. Halifax-class frigates have a crew of approximately 240 personnel comprising RCN sailors as well as RCAF aviators to fly and support the ship’s embarked CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopter.
On Friday, April 12, 2024, the crew of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Montreal discovered a problem with a system that required rectification. It was determined that it would be efficient and expedient to complete this repair prior to departing Halifax. To conduct the required repairs and preserve the required readiness training, the crew remained onboard following the ceremony until departure.
Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy
Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy represents a comprehensive and integrated framework for increased Canadian engagement across the Indo-Pacific region. Canada will continue to work alongside allies and partners in the region to promote a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Operation HORIZON is Canada’s ongoing forward presence mission to promote peace and stability in support of the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific. In the summer of 2023, the new operation replaced the Indo-Pacific portion of Operation PROJECTION, in line with Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.
All naval activities formerly conducted under Operation PROJECTION Indo-Pacific, along with new activities conducted by the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), Special Forces Command, and other CAF elements, are now conducted under Operation HORIZON.
