On September 10, 2023, the shores of Halifax, Nova Scotia, bore witness to a remarkable display of naval and aerial prowess as Exercise CUTLASS FURY 2023 (CF23) officially commenced. Running until September 22, CF23 is a biennial, multi-national military exercise that brings together the armed forces of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. With a primary focus on enhancing interoperability among allies and addressing submarine warfare threats, this year’s exercise also showcases air-maritime integration, including amphibious landings by the Canadian Army.

Exercise CUTLASS FURY is more than just a show of strength; it’s a testament to the commitment of allied nations to mutual defense and cooperation. CF23 aims to test the combative abilities of Canadian sailors, soldiers, aviators, and their international counterparts in a range of scenarios. This includes anti-submarine warfare, air defense, protection against enemy naval vessels, air-to-air combat, and submarine defense. The exercise showcases the multifaceted nature of modern military operations, emphasizing the importance of working together seamlessly across air, land, and sea.

One of the standout features of CF23 is the broad participation from allied nations. Alongside Canada’s ships, land elements, and air assets, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France have sent their own ships or air components. This international cooperation allows for the synchronization of allied crews and assets, promoting a unified response to potential threats.

Participating Canadian Assets

The Canadian Armed Forces have deployed an impressive array of assets to CF23, including:

1. Halifax-class Frigates:

   – His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Charlottetown

   – HMCS Fredericton

2. Kingston-class Coastal Defense Vessels:

   – HMCS Glace Bay

   – HMCS Moncton

3. Harry DeWolf-class Offshore Patrol Vessel:

   – HMCS Max Bernays

4. Royal Canadian Air Force Aircraft:

   – CP-140 Aurora from 14 Wing Greenwood

   – CH-148 Cyclone Helicopters from 12 Wing Shearwater

   – CF-18 Hornet from 425 Squadron CFB Bagotville

5. Canadian Army Units:

   – 4 General Support Regiment

   – 36 Canadian Brigade Group Army Reserve

International Participants

The participating international assets include:

1. United States:

   – Arleigh Burke-class Destroyers: USS James E. Williams, USS Porter

   – Lewis and Clarke-class dry cargo ship: United States Naval Ship William Mclean

2. United Kingdom:

   – P8A Poseidon – anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare aircraft

3. Germany:

   – P3C Orion – anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft

4. France:

   – Br.1150 Atlantic – maritime patrol aircraft

As the exercise unfolds off the coast of Nova Scotia, it not only enhances the collective defence capabilities of participating nations but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation. CF23’s comprehensive approach to air-maritime integration and the inclusion of amphibious landings demonstrate the evolving nature of modern warfare and the need for allied forces to be ready and adaptable in the face of ever-changing threats.