HMCS Yellowknife returns home following Operation CARIBBE

His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Yellowknife returned to its homeport of Halifax, Nova Scotia, on March 12 following a seven-week deployment on Operation CARIBBE in the Caribbean Sea. During the deployment, the ship’s company worked alongside the United States Coast Guard to detect, monitor and disrupt illicit narcotics trafficking across the region.

Operation CARIBBE is Canada’s contribution to multinational efforts to counter illicit narcotics trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. The operation strengthens partnerships across the western hemisphere and supports efforts to prevent illicit narcotics from reaching North American communities.

HMCS Frédérick Rolette advances Arctic readiness through trials and joint training

HMCS Frédérick Rolette is advancing Arctic readiness through cold-weather operations conducted in challenging winter conditions. The ship recently concluded a series of cold-weather trials in support of ICENAV 2026, a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) initiative focused on enhancing navigation and operational effectiveness in ice-covered waters.

Working alongside embarked scientists from Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC), the team studied ice conditions and tested tools to support safe and effective navigation in polar and subpolar environments.

On February 26, 2026, the ship conducted joint icebreaking manoeuvres with Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Jean Goodwill in the Northumberland Strait, strengthening interoperability and refining ship handling in ice-prone environments.

These activities contribute to the continued development of Arctic capabilities and support safe, precise operations in Canada’s northern regions.

RCN sailors embark in Italian frigate under Operation REGULUS

Italian Navy frigate ITS Alpino (F 594) visited Halifax on March 10, bringing with it eight RCN sailors embarked under Operation REGULUS. The sailors joined Alpino in Rota, Spain, in mid-January and worked as part of the ship’s company throughout the deployment. They crossed the Atlantic to Norfolk, Va., where they participated in COMPTUEX (Composite Training Unit Exercise), a rigorous, multi-week certification exercise conducted by the United States Navy to prepare carrier strike groups for deployment, alongside USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, and visited ports including Boston and New York.

The sailors stood watch on the bridge and in the operations room and supported evolutions such as replenishment at sea and flight deck operations, while also gaining experience in meteorology and watchkeeping.

While in Halifax, the Commanding Officer of HMCS Ville de Québec welcomed Alpino’s Commanding Officer, including a small gift exchange that reflected the relationship between Canada and its NATO allies. Operation REGULUS provides opportunities for RCN personnel to gain experience with partner navies and operate in a multinational environment.

WiDS Annual Awards Breakfast highlights women in defence and security

The 2026 Women in Defence and Security (WiDS) annual awards breakfast brought together members of Canada’s defence and security community in Ottawa on March 12, 2026, recognizing the contributions of women and allies across the sector.

Held at the Rogers Centre Ottawa, the event welcomed more than 1,800 attendees in person and over 600 participants virtually. This year’s theme, Our Community Ignited, highlighted the collective impact of individuals advancing leadership, mentorship, and inclusion across Canada’s defence and security landscape.

The program featured keynote remarks from Caroline Xavier, Chief of the Communications Security Establishment, and Dr. Jody Carrington, alongside the recognition of emerging and established leaders through awards and initiatives supporting the next generation in defence and security.

The event underscored the importance of a strong, connected community that continues to advance leadership and collaboration in support of Canada’s national security.