The River-class destroyers are set to become the cornerstone of Canada’s naval combat capability, featuring advanced technologies designed to support and protect Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) personnel. Alongside these destroyers, Irving is constructing six AOPS for the RCN and two for the Canadian Coast Guard, further reinforcing Canada’s maritime readiness.
Attended by government officials, military leaders, and industry representatives, the Halifax event celebrated both industrial achievements and economic impact. The Honourable Kody Blois, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, joined Vice-Admiral Topshee, Commander of the RCN, Members of Parliament, and partners from the Department of National Defence and Public Services and Procurement Canada.
“The Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships and River-class destroyers are generating economic growth in Atlantic Canada and across the country,” said the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement. “These highly versatile vessels will ensure that the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard have the operational readiness to carry out their important work.”
With the NSS in its 15th year, the strategy continues to support thousands of skilled jobs and advance Canada’s shipbuilding sector. “By investing in our skilled workers, we’re not just building the next generation of Canadian ships, but creating a strong workforce and economy here in Halifax for years to come,” stated Shannon Miedema, Member of Parliament for Halifax.
In addition to the destroyer production milestone, Irving is preparing to deliver the sixth and final AOPS for the RCN and to lay the keel for the eighth AOPS, the second vessel destined for the Canadian Coast Guard. The company credited these developments to ongoing efficiency gains and the commitment of its Halifax Shipyard team.
Dirk Lesko, President of Irving Shipbuilding Inc., emphasised the collective effort behind the progress: “It takes all of us working in partnership to realize the objectives of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. Everyone here today shares in this success and in the momentum we’re building.”
