On October 16, 2024, the crew of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa gathered for a heartfelt farewell at His Majesty’s Canadian Dockyard in Esquimalt, British Columbia, as they embarked on a significant mission across the Pacific Ocean.
“The departure of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa, the second ship from the West Coast to deploy on Operation HORIZON this year, represents the culmination of thousands of hours of collective effort and dedication from the ship’s company and supporting staff ashore. This deployment to the Indo-Pacific region will see the ship and its crew sail with our allies and partners in the region and take on critical tasks and missions. I know that they are up to the challenge. Fair winds and following seas to HMCS Ottawa, I wish you all a safe and successful mission,” expressed Rear-Admiral Christopher Robinson, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific.
HMCS Ottawa’s deployment is part of two major operations—Operations HORIZON and NEON. Operation HORIZON, one of Canada’s initiatives in the Indo-Pacific, focuses on promoting peace, stability, and upholding international law in the region. On the other hand, Operation NEON aligns Canada with a multinational coalition to enforce United Nations sanctions aimed at North Korea, further emphasizing Canada’s role in global security.
“For those serving onboard, today’s departure is months in the making. Ottawa’s crew has worked hard to get our ship ready for Operations HORIZON and NEON where we will represent Canada and the Royal Canadian Navy well throughout our mission across the Indo-Pacific. This deployment would not be possible without the incredible support of our families, who serve with us, and without them we would not have been able to get to this moment,” said Commander Adriano Lozer, Commanding Officer HMCS Ottawa.
Throughout their mission, HMCS Ottawa will play a key role in reinforcing Canada’s naval presence in the Indo-Pacific. This deployment not only underscores the country’s ongoing dedication to regional peace and stability but also highlights its strong commitment to maintaining international security standards.
As part of their duties, the ship’s crew will engage in military exercises with allies and partners, demonstrating the Royal Canadian Navy’s impressive operational capabilities. Their participation in these exercises reinforces Canada’s dedication to fostering international cooperation and strengthening both military and diplomatic ties on the global stage.
As HMCS Ottawa sets off, it embodies Canada’s enduring commitment to peace and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.