His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton and Yellowknife departed Halifax on July 7, 2025, to begin their deployment on Operation REASSURANCE, where they will join Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG1).
The ships will operate in European waters, advancing NATO’s maritime security and mine countermeasure operations from July to October 2025.
“Canada’s contribution to Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One underscores our steadfast commitment to NATO’s collective defence and international maritime security,” Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz, Commander Maritime Component Command stated in a press release. “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.”
The 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.
This deployment demonstrates Canada’s unwavering commitment to NATO and to the security of the Euro-Atlantic region.