Photo credit: x.com/IrvingShipbuild/
DND Press Release
Today, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) accepted the sixth and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV), His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Robert Hampton Gray. This delivery marks the completion of a fleet of vessels that have already had an exemplary deployment history since the commissioning of the first ship in 2021. The AOPVs have demonstrated numerous operational capabilities, with multiple deployments on Operations CARIBBE, HORIZON and NANOOK. The AOPVs have also circumnavigated North America, deployed to Antarctica, and have provided support to Canadians at home under Operation LENTUS.
The AOPVs are ice-capable patrol ships designed to enhance the Canadian Armed Forces’ presence in the Arctic, and to assert and uphold Canadian sovereignty. These versatile ships can operate anywhere in the world, bolstering the RCN’s capability to support international peace and security. In addition to performing operational missions and tasks, in line with Canada’s defence policy, the construction of these modern ships also supports Canada’s marine industry under the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
Following official delivery to the RCN, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray and its crew will undergo sea trials, warm and cold weather trials and post-delivery evaluations. The ship’s commissioning ceremony is expected to take place in 2026, after it arrives in its home port of Esquimalt, British Columbia.
Quotes
“Today is a major milestone in our National Shipbuilding Strategy. With the delivery of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Robert Hampton Gray, the sixth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel, the Royal Canadian Navy now has a complete fleet ready to patrol our waters and defend our sovereignty. These ships strengthen Canada’s ability to protect our interests at home and abroad, and they give our sailors the modern tools they need to do their job. This achievement is thanks to the dedication of workers at Irving and across Canada’s shipbuilding industry.”
The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
“With today’s delivery of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Robert Hampton Gray, a ship proudly bearing the name of a Canadian Second World War hero, our government has successfully delivered the first class of ships built for the Royal Canadian Navy through the National Shipbuilding Strategy. I was pleased to visit Irving Shipbuilding and see HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, where I witnessed firsthand the exceptional work of our Canadian shipbuilders, skilled workers whose expertise are delivering world-class vessels for our Navy. The Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels have significantly enhanced Canada’s ability to protect our sovereignty and participate in critical operations alongside our allies, particularly in the Arctic. We will continue to invest in the infrastructure, technology, and equipment that our Navy needs, ensuring a stronger, more secure future for all Canadians.”
The Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement
“The acceptance of our final Arctic and Offshore Patrol ship is a key development for the Royal Canadian Navy as it completes the delivery of the first new class of ships in over 25 years and highlights the success of our national shipbuilding strategy. It is an exciting moment for the sailors who will train and sail on these incredible vessels. His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Robert Hampton Gray will be transferred to Canadian Fleet Pacific and will ensure that the RCN can patrol Canada’s Arctic from both coasts.
Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander Royal Canadian Navy
“Today’s delivery is an exciting moment for the crew of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Robert Hampton Gray. We have been eagerly anticipating our upcoming sea trials, where our work as sailors really begins. I am incredibly proud to have the privilege to command the sixth and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel. Thank you to everyone who has brought us to today.”
Commander Brian Henwood, Commanding Officer HMCS Robert Hampton Gray
