NR.11.018 - March 1, 2011
Ottawa - Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Charlottetown will depart Halifax on the morning of Wednesday, March 2, 2011 to take part in the Canadian operations already under way in the region of Libya. The ship should take approximately seven days to reach its destination in the Mediterranean Sea.
Operation Mobile is the Canadian Forces contribution to Canada's emergency evacuation response to the situation in Libya. HMCS Charlottetown will augment the Canadian Forces presence already in the region supporting Government of Canada evacuation operations. This mission demonstrates Canada's solidarity with our partners and allies as we continue to work together to address the situation in the region. Canada stands ready to support the wider international response to the situation in Libya, including supporting humanitarian assistance efforts.
"I know that our naval personnel are some of the best trained and best-led in the world and I am proud that HMCS Charlottetown is joining other Canadian Forces members in assisting with the crisis in Libya," said Minister MacKay. "Canada's is a quickly deployable force that brings credit to our nation whenever called upon to assist in international efforts."
"The men and women of the Canadian Forces will answer the call of duty to secure Canadian interests and to contribute to the security of those in need," said General Walter Natynczyk, Chief of the Defence Staff. "Our men and women are pleased to contribute to this international effort and cooperate with our allies."
HMCS Charlottetown , a Halifax-class frigate, is commanded by Commander Craig Skjerpen, carries a ship's company of about 240 officers and sailors, along with a CH-124 Sea King helicopter and air detachment.
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