Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Victoria Foley
Today, His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton and Yellowknife departed Halifax to begin their deployment on Operation REASSURANCE, where they will join Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG1). From July to October 2025, the ships will operate in European waters, advancing NATO’s maritime security and mine countermeasure operations.
This deployment demonstrates Canada’s unwavering commitment to NATO and to the security of the Euro-Atlantic region. As Kingston-class Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels, HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife are equipped with advanced mine countermeasure capabilities, including REMUS 100 Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and Royal Canadian Navy clearance diving teams. Their mission will focus on detecting and neutralizing historic sea mines, ensuring safe navigation, and protecting critical undersea infrastructure.
Canada’s leadership within SNMCMG1 is a key element of our contribution to NATO’s collective deterrence and defence posture. The professionalism, capability, and operational readiness of Royal Canadian Navy personnel aboard HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife reinforce Canada’s role as a reliable Ally and security partner.
Quotes
“Canada’s contribution to Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One underscores our steadfast commitment to NATO’s collective defence and international maritime security. The dedication, skill, and operational readiness demonstrated by the crews of His Majesty’s Canadian Ships Edmonton and Yellowknife exemplify the Royal Canadian Navy’s ability to deliver excellence at sea and strengthen vital partnerships with our Allies.”
– Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz, Commander Maritime Component Command
“His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Edmonton is honoured to represent Canada on the international stage as part of Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One. We are excited to integrate with our NATO Allies where we can demonstrate the Royal Canadian Navy and Canada’s commitment to NATO. The sailors of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Edmonton will demonstrate the Royal Canadian Navy’s excellence on operations and will meet all challenges that arise.”
– Lieutenant-Commander Jason Pike, Commanding Officer, HMCS Edmonton
“The strength of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Yellowknife lies in its people. Our sailors bring skill, resilience, and unwavering dedication to every mission. As we join Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One, I’m proud to lead a team that exemplifies the very best of the Royal Canadian Navy - professionals who stand ready to serve, support our Allies, and safeguard the seas.”
– Lieutenant-Commander Jeffrey Smith, Commanding Officer, HMCS Yellowknife
Quick Facts
SNMCMG1 provides NATO with a continuous maritime capability for operations in peacetime and crisis, enhancing readiness and interoperability among Allies.
Op REASSURANCE is Canada’s largest overseas military operation, supporting NATO’s deterrence and defence posture in Central and Eastern Europe since 2014.
HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife are equipped with REMUS 100 AUVs, capable of conducting rapid environmental assessments and seabed surveys to detect underwater threats.
Canada has deployed RCN ships to NATO’s Standing Naval Forces on a persistent rotational basis for over a decade, reinforcing its role as a reliable and capable Ally.
