After an extensive five-month mission in the Indo-Pacific, HMCS Ottawa has returned home to Esquimalt, British Columbia. The Royal Canadian Navy frigate played a key role in international security efforts as part of Operations HORIZON and NEON, strengthening Canada’s presence in the region.

“As His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Ottawa’s deployment in support of Operations HORIZON and NEON comes to an end, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the crew. Your commitment, dedication, teamwork and resilience have been extraordinary. The success of this mission is thanks to your tireless efforts and your families’ and friends’ unwavering support. Welcome home,” expressed Rear-Admiral Christopher Robinson, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific and Commander Joint Task Force Pacific.

Under Operation HORIZON, the vessel and its crew took part in a series of joint exercises with naval forces from Japan, the United States, the Republic of Korea, France, Australia, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines. These engagements included complex maneuvers and multinational training drills aimed at enhancing cooperation among allied nations. Additionally, the crew contributed to discussions on Women, Peace, and Security, reinforcing Canada’s commitment to global inclusion and stability.

“His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Ottawa’s deployment exemplifies Canada’s ability to operate alongside our allies and partners, reinforcing our commitment to sustain a robust naval presence in critical global regions. The exceptional performance of the crew during the five-month mission has made a meaningful contribution to global peace and stability, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Operations like HORIZON and NEON are essential to the Royal Canadian Navy’s mission, advancing Canada’s strategic priorities and supporting international security,” said Commander Landon Creasy, Commanding Officer HMCS Ottawa.

HMCS Ottawa also played a crucial role in a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity alongside the Philippines. The ship made a significant port visit to Cambodia, where crew members provided first aid training to local forces. Further demonstrating their operational capabilities, the crew participated in Exercise LA PEROUSE, a carrier strike group drill led by the French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle.

Meanwhile, under Operation NEON, HMCS Ottawa was tasked with monitoring maritime activities for compliance with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions against North Korea. Throughout the mission, the crew identified and reported five vessels suspected of violating these sanctions, reinforcing Canada’s dedication to international security and law enforcement at sea.

Canada’s continued presence in the Indo-Pacific underscores its unwavering support for regional peace and stability. The actions taken by HMCS Ottawa and its personnel highlight the nation’s commitment to fostering strong international partnerships and maintaining security in an increasingly complex global landscape.