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Today, Irving Shipbuilding recognized significant production milestones, including the commencement of full rate production for the future River-class destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), the upcoming delivery of the sixth and final Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) for the RCN, and the upcoming keel laying for the eighth AOPS and second Canadian Coast Guard variant. This event also celebrated the hard work and dedication of the workforce at Halifax Shipyard, who are demonstrating continuous efficiency gains as Irving Shipbuilding proudly builds ships for Canada.

Celebrated at the Halifax Shipyard with the Honourable Kody Blois, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister; Members of Parliament; Vice-Admiral Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy; representatives from Unifor; and Canada/Industry partners from Department of National Defence, and Public Services and Procurement Canada, the milestone event recognizes the significant progress being achieved at Halifax Shipyard.

Under the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), Irving Shipbuilding is constructing six AOPS for the Royal Canadian Navy, two AOPS for the Canadian Coast Guard and 15 River-class destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy.

The River-class destroyer will be an advanced and modern combat ship, forming the backbone of Canada’s future naval combat capability. These ships are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to support and protect the sailors of the Royal Canadian Navy as they fulfill their missions.

The NSS has revitalized Canada’s shipbuilding industry while creating local jobs and delivering significant economic impact. Halifax shipbuilders have been able to focus on building back critical supply chains and developing their advanced skills to produce the cornerstone of the naval fleet which will keep Canada’s sailors safe, protect Canadians, and confidently deliver on our international security responsibilities abroad.

Quotes

“Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, we’re building Canada’s fleet of the future while revitalizing our marine industry, creating skilled jobs and fostering innovation. The Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships and River-class destroyers are generating economic growth in Atlantic Canada and across the country. These highly versatile vessels will ensure that the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard have the operational readiness to carry out their important work.”

The Honourable Joël Lightbound

Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement

“Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, now in its 15th year, this government is supporting 1000s of good paying jobs in Halifax and across Nova Scotia. By investing in our skilled workers, we’re not just building the next generation of Canadian ships, but creating a strong workforce and economy here in Halifax for years to come.”

Shannon Miedema, Member of Parliament for Halifax

“Again, this year we’re delivering on every one of our commitments to sustain the legacy ships of Canada’s navy while building the next generation fleets. It takes all of us working in partnership to realize the objectives of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. Everyone here today shares in this success and in the momentum we’re building”

Dirk Lesko, President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc.