Implementation phase for Canada’s River-class destroyer program begins

October 7, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

Defense company CAE has signed a subcontract with Lockheed Martin Canada to begin the implementation phase for the River-class destroyer program.

As disclosed, the agreement marks a significant milestone in the development of next-generation naval capabilities for the Royal Canadian Navy.

CAE is leading the development of training solutions for the River-class destroyer’s communications and integrated bridge and navigation systems.

This includes training needs analysis, courseware development, and delivery of advanced training to ensure the mission and operational readiness of the Royal Canadian Navy personnel. CAE is also providing human factors engineering services to inform the design of critical spaces aboard the ship.

“Our advanced training solutions will equip the Royal Canadian Navy with world-class capabilities tailored to the specific needs of the River-class destroyer,” said France Hébert, CAE Division President, Defense & Security Canada and Global Operations Lead.

“As we move into the implementation phase, we’re proud to ensure these critical capabilities are developed and maintained in Canada – strengthening national security and supporting long-term economic growth.”

Lockheed Martin Canada was awarded the River-class destroyer’s implementation subcontract by prime contractor Irving Shipbuilding, the company building the vessels. Recently, the firm awarded a contract for work on the visual surveillance system (VSS) for the destroyers to L3Harris.

Irving Shipbuilding awards L3Harris VSS work on Canada’s River-class destroyers

Equipment & technology

The River-class destroyer project, formerly the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC), is the largest and most complex shipbuilding initiative in Canada since the Second World War. The vessels are based on BAE Systems’ Type 26 warship design, being built by the United Kingdom and Australia. The ships will have enhanced underwater sensors, radar, and modern weapons. Fifteen new warships are scheduled to join the navy’s fleet in the early 2030s. They will replace both the Iroquois-class destroyers and the Halifax-class frigates.

Specifications: