The Canadian government has set the total cost for building and delivering the first three ships at $22.2 billion, excluding taxes. This figure includes payments to Irving Shipbuilding as well as additional costs for equipment, systems, and ammunition required to bring the ships into operational service.
These advanced warships will strengthen Canada’s defence capabilities and allow the navy to fulfil its security commitments. The destroyers will support missions under the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD), the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, NATO, coalition operations, and domestic security efforts.
The programme is the most ambitious shipbuilding project in Canada since the Second World War and represents a major investment in the modernisation of the navy’s surface fleet. The first three ships will be named HMCS Fraser, HMCS Saint-Laurent, and HMCS Mackenzie and will replace both the ageing Iroquois-class destroyers and Halifax-class frigates.
Based on BAE Systems’ Type 26 warship design, which is also in production for the Royal Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, these new ships will feature advanced underwater sensors, cutting-edge radar, and modern weapon systems. Their construction marks a significant step in ensuring Canada’s maritime security and its ability to operate alongside key allies in global defence operations.
