The Government of Canada has introduced the most substantial update to CAF compensation and benefits in decades, supporting Regular and Reserve members, including Rangers and COATS. Pay increases—retroactive to April 1, 2025—have begun, with more initiatives coming. These changes honour the dedication, sacrifice, and essential contributions of CAF members and their families.

After a seven-month deployment across multiple oceans, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ville de Québec has returned to Halifax from Operation HORIZON in the Indo-Pacific. The mission strengthened Canada’s partnerships and showcased the Royal Canadian Navy’s dedication to promoting peace, security, and global stability alongside allies and partners worldwide.

On September 19, the Royal Canadian Navy celebrated a Northern Affiliation ceremony with Nunavik, uniting the community with HMCS Frédérick Rolette. This initiative strengthens ties between the RCN and Canada’s North, fostering mutual respect, cultural exchange, and learning opportunities as Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels build lasting partnerships with northern communities.

Commissionaires Nova Scotia launches Purpose & Protection, a new podcast exploring the stories and values of Canada’s only not-for-profit security provider. Debuting in advance of the Commissionaires’ 100th anniversary in 2025, the monthly series features veterans, leaders, and public servants sharing powerful insights on service, security, and community impact.

Major-General Jeff Smyth will welcome the first two CT-102B Astra II training aircraft to 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Part of a future 23-aircraft fleet, they support the $11.2B, 25-year Future Aircrew Training program with SkyAlyne to prepare Royal Canadian Air Force personnel.

A forensic investigation determined that documents former MP Chris Alexander used to accuse journalist David Pugliese of being a Russian asset were forgeries. Despite Alexander’s claims, experts found the files computer-generated and inconsistent with archival records. Pugliese condemned the smear as part of ongoing attacks on Canadian journalism.

Warrant Officer George Hohl, a Vehicle Technician from 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, was found deceased in Latvia after being reported missing on September 2, 2025. Serving nearly 20 years, he deployed on multiple operations, including LENTUS, GLOBE, and REASSURANCE. Investigations continue. Our sincerest condolences go to his family and friends.

A Canadian Armed Forces member, Warrant Officer George Hohl of 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, has been missing in Ādaži, Latvia, since September 2, 2025, while deployed on Operation REASSURANCE. Latvian Police, Canadian Forces Military Police, and NATO are conducting extensive search efforts.

Canada, alongside Australia, the Philippines, and the United States, completed a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity in the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone. Involving naval ships and patrol aircraft, the exercise reinforced interoperability, freedom of navigation, and commitment to international law. Canada’s continued participation strengthens regional security, peace, and stability.

The Soldiers of Suicide (S.O.S.) Memorial dedication at Beechwood honoured fallen soldiers who took their own lives, offering families recognition and support. Led by Lise Charron, with guests Paul “Trapper” Cane and Xavier Remillard, the ceremony featured lanterns, music, and resources, emphasizing solidarity, remembrance, and breaking the silence around suicide.

The Royal Canadian Navy has accepted HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, the sixth and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel. Designed for Arctic sovereignty and global operations, AOPVs have already proven their versatility through multiple deployments. This milestone strengthens Canada’s naval presence and supports shipbuilding under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

Today marks 80 years since VJ Day, ending WWII after Japan’s surrender. Canadians fought with distinction in the Pacific—from Hong Kong’s brutal siege to defending the West Coast and Aleutians. This often-overlooked chapter honours their courage, endurance, and sacrifice in securing peace half a world away.

On August 9 in Halifax, the Royal Canadian Navy named its final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, honouring Canada’s last Victoria Cross recipient. Gray, a WWII naval aviator, died in 1945 attacking a Japanese ship. The vessel will patrol Arctic waters, embodying Gray’s enduring courage and service.

The Canadian Armed Forces are reinforcing Arctic sovereignty through multiple summer and fall operations. Naval, air, and land assets, alongside Canadian Rangers and Indigenous partners, will patrol and conduct exercises across the Arctic, enhancing domain awareness, deterring threats, and strengthening collaboration with allies, particularly the U.S., in defending North America.

Gregg Evjen has been appointed President of KF Aerospace, effective September 1, 2025, as part of the company’s succession plan. With 35 years at KF, Evjen brings deep operational and regulatory expertise. CEO Tracy Medve will continue leading KF Capital. Evjen is widely respected in Canadian aviation circles.

A Royal Canadian Air Force CC-130J Hercules will conduct a flyby over the National Peacekeepers’ Day ceremony in Ottawa on August 10, 2025. Flying no lower than 500 feet, the event is weather-dependent. The aircraft supports missions like transport, search and rescue, tactical airlift, and aircrew training.

In fall 2025, the Royal Canadian Navy will pay off eight of its twelve Kingston-class ships during formal ceremonies in Halifax and Esquimalt. Four vessels will remain operational in Halifax to support missions. The RCN will maintain capabilities through fleet consolidation and new platforms replacing the retiring Kingston-class vessels.

Commissionaires Canada celebrates its 100th anniversary on July 25, 2025. Founded in 1925 to provide meaningful employment to veterans, it has grown into Canada’s largest veteran employer and trusted security provider. Centennial events nationwide honour its legacy, evolution, and continued commitment to those who’ve served and Canadian communities.

The Canadian Tank Museum will unveil Project Uplift on July 25, 2025—the world’s first wheelchair-accessible lift system for armoured personnel carriers. This Canadian innovation, driven by community support and inclusivity, ensures that people with physical disabilities can fully experience military history and tank rides with dignity, safety, and joy.

As part of Canada’s $38.6B NORAD modernization, DND has selected initial sites for the Arctic Over-the-Horizon Radar project in Kawartha Lakes and Clearview Township. These mark key steps toward Arctic security. Public engagement begins soon, with initial construction expected in winter 2026 and operations by late 2029.