HMCS Robert Hampton Gray departs Halifax for historic coastal transfer

HMCS Robert Hampton Gray departed Halifax on August 16 for its coastal transfer to CFB Esquimalt. The voyage marks the first time an RCN ship will transit the Northwest Passage to change home ports.

As part of Operation NANOOK, Robert Hampton Gray led a group of allied and partner ships through Halifax Harbour, including the Royal Danish Navy’s HDMS Thetis and Canadian Coast Guard Ship George R. Pearkes. The annual operation strengthens cooperation with allies and Arctic partners and supports readiness to operate in Canada’s North. The ship is scheduled to be officially commissioned in November.

Change of command marks new chapter for MARLANT and JTFA

Rear-Admiral (RAdm) Pascal Belhumeur assumed command of Maritime Forces Atlantic (MARLANT) and Joint Task Force Atlantic (JTFA) from RAdm Josée Kurtz on August 11. The change of command ceremony took place at sea aboard HMCS William Hall.

RAdm Belhumeur will lead RCN forces on the East Coast and CAF continental operations across Atlantic Canada.

The change of command marks a new chapter for MARLANT and JTFA, as RAdm Belhumeur takes the helm and builds on the work of those who served before him. We thank RAdm Kurtz for her dedicated leadership and service to the RCN, congratulating her on a remarkable career as she begins her retirement.

Marine Careers Expo 2026 coming this fall!

The Marine Careers Expo connects Government of Canada institutions, marine employers, and schools. The event is a showcase of careers in the marine sector and often features ship tours and community activities.

Stops this fall include:

• September 25/26 – Hamilton, Ont.
• September 26 – Vancouver, B.C.
• October 3 – Victoria, B.C.

HMCS Charlottetown returns from Indo-Pacific deployment

HMCS Charlottetown returned to Halifax on August 17 after a six-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region in support of Operations HORIZON and NEON.

Over more than 150 days at sea, Charlottetown sailed 45,000 nautical miles and worked alongside 15 allied and partner nations. The deployment included multinational exercises, joint training and regional engagements that strengthened interoperability and defence cooperation.

The ship also contributed to multinational efforts to implement United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea, supporting security and stability across the Indo-Pacific.

Ex GOLDRUSH 2026 builds skills and connections

Ex GOLDRUSH 2026 focused on education, force generation and community engagement. It provided hands-on training for RCN members along the Pacific coast.

Naval warfare officers, boatswains, marine systems mechanical technicians and cooks received scenario-based mentorship from experienced sailors. Participants also conducted patrols from British Columbia to Alaska.

The Patrol Craft Training Unit welcomed community members aboard Orca-class vessels for tours. These visits offered a closer look at coastal operations, teamwork and life at sea. Thank you to the communities, partner organizations and RCN members who contributed to the success of Ex GOLDRUSH 2026.

Lt(N) Hirst extinguishes truck fire during morning commute 

When Lieutenant(Navy) (Lt(N)) Alistair Hirst came across a truck that had caught fire after crashing into a telephone pole on his way to work, he did not hesitate to help. Drawing on his RCN training, he quickly assessed the scene, assisted the driver, and extinguished a fire before emergency responders arrived. His actions are a reminder that Navy training extends far beyond the duties of the job.

Bravo Zulu, Lt(N) Hirst! Read the full story.

Cdr Sleen honoured with Gold SSI during RIMPAC 2026

During RIMPAC 2026, Commander (Cdr)  Darren Sleen, the Commanding Officer (CO) of HMCS Regina, was presented with the Gold Sea Service Insignia (SSI), recognizing more than 1,460 cumulative days spent at sea. More than a small pin on a naval uniform, the SSI marks an extraordinary milestone of dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to service. 

To mark the occasion, Regina ‘s crew members organized a surprise visit from Cdr Sleen’s former CO, Captain(Navy) (Capt(N)) Landon Creasy, who boarded the ship to award the insignia while at sea.

As Regina continues its voyage, the gold pin on Cdr Sleen’s chest stands as a powerful symbol of excellence, leadership, and inspiration.

Bravo Zulu, Cdr Sleen!

This story was written by Lt(N) SeeEun Kim, HMCS Regina, and published by the Lookout. Read the full story.

HMCS Charlottetown awarded 2026 Admiral’s Cup 

The ship’s company of HMCS Charlottetown has earned the 2026 Admiral’s Cup. The award is presented annually to the unit that best demonstrates outstanding efficiency, morale and leadership.

The recognition follows Charlottetown’s successful six-month deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. The ship spent more than 150 days at sea supporting Operations HORIZON and NEON while advancing Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. Throughout the deployment, the crew worked alongside allies and partners to support regional security.

RAdm Pascal Belhumeur and Chief Petty Officer, 1st Class, Patrick Mackey presented the award aboard Charlottetown. Congratulations to the crew on earning this year’s Admiral’s Cup!

Raven 2026 marks successful completion

On August 17, 2026, 23 participants in the RCN Raven program graduated at CFB Esquimalt, B.C., after six weeks of training.

Raven blends Indigenous teachings and cultural learning with CAF training, while maintaining a distinct naval focus. Participants completed Basic Military Qualification and took part in several naval activities. Throughout the program, they developed leadership, teamwork, self-discipline and resilience.

The graduation ceremony included performances by Lekwungen dancers, a traditional sashing ceremony and a march past. The event recognized the graduates’ dedication, personal growth and accomplishments throughout the program. Bravo Zulu to all 23 Raven graduates on this outstanding achievement!

Increased education support for Primary Reservists

The CAF increased education funding for Primary Reserve members on August 1, 2026, providing greater financial support for post-secondary education and professional development.

Through the Education Expense Reimbursement Program, eligible Primary Reservists can now receive reimbursement for up to 75% of eligible expenses, up from 50%. The annual maximum increased from $2,000 to $7,500, with a new career maximum of $30,000.

The enhanced benefit helps reduce financial barriers to education while supporting Primary Reservists in balancing military service, education, and civilian careers.

RCN and Georgian College launch new partnership

On August 20, 2026, the RCN and Georgian College signed a five-year Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) aimed at strengthening connections between post-secondary education, naval service and Canada’s maritime workforce.

Capt(N) Geoff Hamilton, Naval Reserve Central Region Commander, signed the agreement alongside Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian College.

Through the MOC, the RCN will provide Georgian College recruiters and students with expanded access to information on CAF and Navy career opportunities, to work with the college on experiential learning involving serving members, and to explore training, refresher and upskilling opportunities for reservists and active service members. In return, the college will support prior learning assessments and advanced standing for CAF and Navy members, collaborate on experiential learning initiatives, and facilitate work-integrated learning opportunities aligned with naval occupations.

Building on Georgian College’s designation as a military-connected college and the marine expertise of its Owen Sound Campus, the partnership will help connect students and sailors with educational and professional development opportunities while supporting Canada’s future maritime workforce.