His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Yellowknife concluded its deployment on Operation CARIBBE, where it conducted detection and monitoring activities, and provided support to lawful operations against illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea.

“His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Yellowknife’s deployment on Operation CARIBBE demonstrates Canada’s sustained commitment to upholding international law and contributing to regional security in the Caribbean Sea. Maintaining a lawful and persistent presence at sea plays a critical role in deterring illicit trafficking and supporting our partners’ efforts to counter transnational criminal networks. I commend the ship’s company for their professionalism and dedication throughout this mission, which strengthens both our international partnerships and the safety of our communities.”

Commodore Jacob French, Acting Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic

“The professionalism and interoperability of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Yellowknife crew and our embarked United States Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment is a testament to our enduring partnership with the Royal Canadian Navy. It takes a network to defeat a network, and that is why our collaboration is vital for disrupting the flow of illicit narcotics from reaching either of our nations.”

Vice Admiral Nathan Moore, Commander United States Coast Guard Atlantic Area

“The sailors of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Yellowknife worked tirelessly throughout our deployment on Operation CARIBBE, maintaining vigilance during extended patrols and supporting our United States Coast Guard partners in their law enforcement role. Our presence forms part of a broader, long‑standing multinational effort that deters traffickers and strengthens the maritime security framework of the region. I am extremely proud of the professionalism, teamwork, and steadfast commitment demonstrated by every member of the crew.”

Lieutenant-Commander Jeff Smith, Commanding Officer of HMCS Yellowknife

• The CAF have contributed to Operation CARIBBE since 2006 and continue that contribution in 2026 as part of efforts to support the United States’ Operation MARTILLO to disrupt illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean.

• Operation CARIBBE is solely focused on counter‑narcotics efforts and is conducted under the authority of established agreements with the USCG, which retains full law enforcement authority during interdictions.

• In 2025, CAF ships contributed to two successful Operation CARIBBE serials. HMCS Harry DeWolf supported the seizure of more than 750 kg of cocaine, and HMCS William Hall supported the seizure of more than 1,500 kg of cocaine, contributing to a total of more than 2,200 kg of illicit narcotics interdicted that year.

• Since 2006, the CAF has contributed to the disruption or seizure of more than 123 metric tonnes of cocaine.

• A 2010 Memorandum of Understanding between Canada and the United States allows USCG LEDETs to operate from CAF ships, enabling lawful interdiction operations under United States legal authority while enhancing interoperability and supporting regional maritime security.

Associated links

• Operation CARIBBE – Canada.ca
• Canadian Joint Operations Command - Canada.ca
• Canadian Joint Operations Command - Facebook
• Canadian Joint Operations Command - Instagram
• Canadian Joint Operations Command - X

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
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Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca