Halifax, Nova Scotia – July 3, 2025 – His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) William Hall has returned to its home port at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Halifax, marking the successful conclusion of its deployment on Operation CARIBBE. The mission, Canada’s contribution to the United States-led enhanced counter-narcotics operations under the Joint Interagency Task Force South, saw HMCS William Hall play a pivotal role in disrupting drug trafficking in international waters.
During its 55-day deployment, HMCS William Hall conducted multiple maritime patrols and interdictions, working closely with an embarked United States Coast Guard (USCG) Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET). The ship’s efforts resulted in the seizure of more than 1,545 kilograms of cocaine, significantly impacting the flow of illicit narcotics into North America. This achievement underscores the strong operational partnership between the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and the USCG, as well as Canada’s commitment to international security and counter-narcotics efforts.
Operation CARIBBE, part of the broader U.S.-led Operation MARTILLO, focuses on curbing drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the eastern Pacific. HMCS William Hall’s deployment included four port visits and over 8,600 nautical miles sailed, demonstrating the crew’s professionalism and dedication. The ship’s commanding officer highlighted the mission’s success, stating, “The success of HMCS William Hall in Operation CARIBBE testifies to the professionalism, dedication, and operational excellence of our sailors and our partners in the U.S. Coast Guard.”
This deployment follows the earlier success of HMCS Harry DeWolf, which seized 750 kilograms of cocaine in the Caribbean Sea earlier in 2025. HMCS William Hall, the second Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel deployed on Operation CARIBBE this year, continued this momentum with three significant drug busts, including seizures of over 1,300 kilograms of cocaine on May 29 and 31 alone. These operations involved the deployment of multi-role rescue boats to intercept vessels of interest, showcasing the RCN’s operational capabilities and coordination with regional partners, including Colombian air and maritime assets.
The Canadian Armed Forces have supported Operation CARIBBE since 2006, with a memorandum of understanding signed in 2010 allowing USCG LEDETs to operate from RCN ships and aircraft. This collaboration has proven effective in disrupting illicit trafficking and strengthening regional security. Posts on X celebrated the return of HMCS William Hall, noting the crew’s pride in seizing over 1.5 metric tons of cocaine and contributing to North American security efforts.
The return of HMCS William Hall to Halifax marks not only a successful mission but also a testament to the enduring partnership between Canada, the United States, and other regional allies in combating the international drug trade. The crew’s efforts have reinforced Canada’s commitment to a rules-based international order and regional stability, earning praise for their role in this critical multinational operation.