The first of two new Arctic and offshore patrol ships (AOPS) for the Canadian Coast Guard has been launched at Irving Shipbuilding’s Halifax yard, marking a key milestone in Canada’s long-term fleet renewal effort.
The future CCGS Donjek was transferred from the building hall onto a submersible barge and floated out into the Bedford Basin on April 28 following a launch operation that required approximately 49 million liters of water. The vessel is now pier side in Halifax, where outfitting will continue ahead of sea trials. Delivery is expected in late 2026, with sister ship CCGS Sermilik to follow in 2027.
The 338’ vessel, with an approximate displacement of 7,360 tons, is based on the Royal Canadian Navy’s Harry DeWolf-class design, six of which have already been delivered. The Coast Guard variant incorporates lessons learned from that program and is configured for multi-mission operations. The vessel will carry a crew of 31 with accommodations for up to 57 personnel.
Built under Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, the new AOPS vessels are intended to expand the Canadian Coast Guard’s patrol and icebreaking capacity while supporting operations in remote and Arctic regions. Mission profiles include offshore fisheries patrols, conservation and protection, search and rescue, aids to navigation, and emergency response. The vessel is also designed to support scientific research and humanitarian operations, with modular accommodations, a medical facility, a 20-ton crane, and an A-frame for over-the-side operations. A flight deck and hangar enable helicopter operations.
Government officials tied the program to broader investment in domestic shipbuilding and maritime capability. In fiscal year 2025–26, Canada allocated more than $63 billion toward defense and security, including funding for new vessels and shipyard infrastructure.
Irving Shipbuilding, which serves as Canada’s National Shipbuilder for combat vessels, highlighted the continued progress of its Halifax operations. “The launch of the future CCGS Donjek is another milestone achieved on our mission to deliver quality ships for Canada,” said shipyard president Dirk Lesko. “The teamwork and dedication of our workforce continues to produce results that demonstrate that Irving Shipbuilding is Canada’s National Shipbuilder.”
For the Canadian Coast Guard, the vessel represents an expansion of operational reach. “The launch of the CCGS Donjek is a major advancement for the Canadian Coast Guard,” said Commissioner Kevin Brosseau. “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 and flexibility - wherever our personnel is needed.”
The AOPS program is part of a broader fleet renewal effort under the National Shipbuilding Strategy, which also includes plans for two polar icebreakers, up to six Program Icebreakers, and as many as sixteen multipurpose Icebreakers. Irving Shipbuilding said it has also begun full-rate production on the River-class destroyer program, with keel laying for the first vessel, the future HMCS Fraser, scheduled for June.
