The 104.7-metre ship is now berthed at Halifax Shipyard, where work will continue ahead of sea trials and delivery to the Canadian Coast Guard later this year. Construction of the second and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship for the coast guard, the future CCGS Sermilik, is also continuing as planned.
The new vessels will serve as the Canadian Coast Guard’s primary platform for a range of missions. They are expected to support fisheries enforcement on Canada’s east coast, search and rescue operations, icebreaking missions and strengthen Canada’s Arctic presence during the summer months.
Before beginning work on the coast guard variants, Irving Shipbuilding delivered six Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship vessels to the Royal Canadian Navy. The company said the programme has supported the renewal of Canada’s naval fleet and contributed to progress on the new River-class Destroyer programme.
Irving Shipbuilding said progress on the first River-class destroyer, the future HMCS Fraser, remains on schedule after full-rate production began in April 2025. Keel laying for the vessel is due to take place in June 2026.
The company said the National Shipbuilding Strategy has helped create a national shipbuilding workforce, modernise facilities and establish a domestic supply chain across Canada. It added that the programme continues to support long-term sovereign shipbuilding capabilities.
“The launch of the CCGS Donjek is a major advancement for the Canadian Coast Guard. With modern capabilities and a shared class with the Royal Canadian Navy, this vessel will deepen our collaboration at sea and expand our ability to support fisheries patrols, conservation and protection, provide humanitarian assistance, and serve coastal and northern communities with reliability, flexibility, and care – wherever our personnel is needed,” said Kevin Brosseau.
“With the launch of the future CCGS Donjek, we have achieved another major milestone in our commitment to building quality ships for Canada. This achievement is driven by the dedication and teamwork of our people and further highlights Irving Shipbuilding’s role as Canada’s National Shipbuilder,” the company said.
