HMCS Regina, the fifth and final frigate on the west coast to complete its modernization by Seaspan’s Victoria Shipyards, has been returned to the Royal Canadian Navy.
The Halifax-Class Modernization/Frigate Life Extension (HCM/FELEX) refit project is providing upgrades for Canada’s fleet of 12 Halifax-class frigates to meet 21st century threats. The modernization of this fleet includes a new combat management system procured from Lockheed Martin Canada, as well as new radar capability, a new electronic warfare system, and upgraded communications technologies and missiles.
The CAD4,3 billion project manages both the modernization of the combat systems and a planned mid-life ship refit program to ensure the frigates remain effective throughout their service life.
Apart from Seaspan, the other Canadian shipyard contracted for carrying out work on the program is the Irving-owned Halifax Shipyard.
According to the Canadian government, HMCS Toronto, the seventh and final frigate on the East coast is expected to complete its modernization by Irving Halifax Shipyard in late summer 2016. This will mean all twelve of the Halifax-class frigates, five on the west coast and seven on the east coast, will be fully modernized.