Our Stories

We Don't Just Build the Fleet - We Maintain It

Our entire team is united in delivering naval readiness through docking and repairing the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) fleet. Our expertise in modernizing, upgrading, and introducing new capabilities into existing platforms is a true representation of Irving Shipbuilding Inc.’s legacy in ship maintenance.

A Historic Past. A Modern Mission.

Halifax Shipyard’s graving dock, built in 1889, is a proud symbol of our history and commitment to repairing and maintaining ships for Canada.

Having survived the Halifax Explosion, repaired thousands of vessels during World War II, and operated throughout the advancements of the industry — from wooden to steel ships and the exponential growth in vessel size and weight — the graving dock is a strategic asset on Canada’s East Coast, ready and available to support work for the Royal Canadian Navy.

We continue to invest in the maintenance and modernization of the graving dock so it remains a safe and effective element of our integrated new build and ship repair business lines. It is at a constant state of readiness and is well configured to support emergency and planned refit dockings, delivering on our mission to enable the RCN's Operational Availability objectives.

Capable Facilities and Workforce

Irving Shipbuilding Inc. continues to modernize and invest in our facilities and people. Bardex Corporation has been awarded a contract for a 165-meter shiplift to support the River-class destroyer program and future maintenance and repair work. Boasting a capacity of over 27,000 metric tons, the OmniLift Shiplift will include fifty-six 575-metric ton chain jack lift stations and will be the largest shiplift in the Americas.

Located in close proximity to Maritime Forces Atlantic, Halifax Shipyard can provide expedient docking and access to ample hardstand space. Adjacent to ammunition, ranges, naval warehousing, schools, and other basing amenities, Halifax Shipyard is a strategic partner of the navy and its Fleet Maintenance Facilities.

With a workforce of 2,400 employees, we have the experienced staff and skilled labour to repair and maintain Canada’s fleet. Through training, mentorship, and skill development programs, our shipbuilders are empowered with the expertise required to excel at their jobs.