Halifax, Nova Scotia – On July 13, 2025, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) St. John’s departed its home port of Halifax, embarking on a six-month deployment to the Baltic region as part of Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s largest overseas military operation supporting NATO’s deterrence and defense initiatives in Central and Eastern Europe. This deployment underscores Canada’s steadfast commitment to NATO and the collective security of the Euro-Atlantic region.
HMCS St. John’s, a Halifax-class frigate, will join Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1), operating in the Baltic Sea to enhance maritime security and interoperability among Allied forces. The deployment comes at a pivotal time, as Canada ramps up its defense commitments, with the federal government pledging to meet NATO’s target of spending two percent of gross domestic product on defense by the end of fiscal year 2025-26. This promise, announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney, reflects Canada’s response to growing global security challenges and increasing expectations from NATO allies.
Commander Jeffrey Anderson, Commanding Officer of HMCS St. John’s, emphasized the significance of the mission, stating, “This deployment is a testament to the professionalism and readiness of our crew as we contribute to NATO’s deterrence and defense measures in a critical region.” The ship’s crew of approximately 250 personnel, including a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter air detachment, is prepared to conduct a range of operations, from maritime interdiction to joint exercises with NATO partners, aimed at maintaining stability and security in European waters.
Operation REASSURANCE, launched in 2014, represents Canada’s enduring contribution to NATO’s efforts in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in response to regional security threats. HMCS St. John’s follows in the wake of other Canadian vessels, such as HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife, which recently deployed to join SNMCMG1 for mine countermeasures operations in European waters. The operation also includes land and air components, with Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel supporting NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence in countries like Latvia.
A total of three RCN ships are currently deployed on Operation REASSURANCE. On July 7, 2025, HMCS Edmonton and HMCS Yellowknife also deployed to support Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One. From July to October 2025, the ships will operate in European waters, advancing NATO’s maritime security and mine countermeasure operations.
The deployment of HMCS St. John’s aligns with Canada’s broader efforts to modernize and strengthen its military capabilities. The Department of National Defence recently announced a $9 billion increase in defense spending for 2025-26, alongside initiatives to address recruitment challenges and modernize equipment, such as the Counter Uncrewed Aircraft System (CUAS) capability to support CAF operations. These efforts aim to bolster Canada’s role as a reliable NATO partner amid an evolving global security landscape.
The ship is expected to return to Halifax in early 2026.