Full rate production begins on River-class destroyers for Canadian Navy

June 27, 2025, by Fatima Bahtić

The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has achieved a series of major milestones in Canada’s national shipbuilding program, advancing the renewal of its fleet.

As disclosed, Irving Shipbuilding has officially begun full-rate production of the future River-class destroyers, a critical next step in delivering next-generation surface combatants.

Simultaneously, preparations are underway for the delivery of the sixth and final Arctic and offshore patrol ship (AOPS) for the RCN, while the keel is set to be laid for the eighth AOPS — the second to be built for the Canadian Coast Guard.

Canadian Navy launches sixth and final AOPS

Vessels

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.

“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,” Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, said.

“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.”

“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, added.

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.

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