On September 22, 2025, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Frederick Rolette, a Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel, made significant strides in fostering connections with Indigenous communities in Nunavik, Quebec, as part of its northern operations. The Department of National Defence announced that the ship’s crew engaged in meaningful cultural exchanges and community outreach during visits to the communities of Kangiqsujuaq and Inukjuak.
Frederick Rolette, designed for Arctic operations, arrived in Kangiqsujuaq on August 28, where the crew was warmly welcomed by local leaders and residents. Over the course of their visit, the sailors participated in community events, including a cultural exchange featuring traditional Inuit throat singing, drum dancing, and storytelling. The crew also hosted an open house aboard the ship, allowing community members to tour the vessel, learn about its capabilities, and interact with Royal Canadian Navy personnel. This exchange provided an opportunity for mutual learning, with the crew gaining insight into Inuit culture and traditions while showcasing the Navy’s role in Canada’s Arctic.
In Inukjuak, the ship’s visit focused on strengthening partnerships through community engagement. The crew collaborated with local organizations to support youth initiatives, including a workshop on marine safety and navigation. These activities underscored the Navy’s commitment to building trust and supporting the needs of northern communities. The visit also highlighted the strategic importance of Nunavik in Canada’s Arctic sovereignty, with HMCS Frederick Rolette patrolling the region to ensure maritime security and support search-and-rescue operations.
HMCS Frederick Rolette Commanding Officer, Commander Jolene Lisi, emphasized the significance of these visits, stating, “We are privileged to have the opportunity to connect with Nunavik, and to forge ties that last well into the future. Through this relationship, we deepen our understanding of the Arctic, strengthen our operational readiness, and honour these enduring connections.”
Frederick Rolette’s deployment is part of Operation Nanook, Canada’s annual Arctic sovereignty exercise, which enhances the Canadian Armed Forces’ ability to operate in the region while fostering cooperation with Indigenous communities and territorial governments. The Harry DeWolf-class vessels, equipped for extended patrols in harsh Arctic conditions, play a critical role in maintaining a visible presence in Canada’s northern waters.
These visits to Nunavik reflect the Royal Canadian Navy’s broader mission to engage with remote communities, promote cultural understanding, and reinforce Canada’s commitment to Arctic security and sovereignty. As HMCS Frederick Rolette continues its operations, the crew’s efforts in Nunavik serve as a model for meaningful collaboration between the military and Indigenous peoples.
Quotes
“Canada’s Arctic waters are vital to our nation and play an increasingly important role in our sovereignty. We take great pride in linking each new Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel with Northern regions, building meaningful relationships with communities that shape our identity, and strengthening our readiness to operate in the Arctic.” — The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
“Connecting with communities in Canada’s North is a privilege, and a responsibility that means a great deal to the Royal Canadian Navy. Canada’s North is integral to the security and sovereignty of the country, and today’s ceremony is a reaffirmation of our commitment to partnership, respect, and shared stewardship of Canada’s North.” — Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander Royal Canadian Navy
“Building a relationship with the Royal Canadian Navy is a positive step towards respect, understanding, and trust. We at Makivvik look forward to growing this connection, and witnessing the positive impacts it will bring for Nunavimmiut.” — Alicia Aragutak, Corporate Secretary, Makivvik
“This collaboration has been aligned with our efforts to work with governments and equitable partners towards reconciliation and respect in our ancestral environment. We have much to exchange on and I look forward to continuing this collaboration with the Royal Canadian Navy.” — Pita Aatami, President, Makivvik
Quick facts
- The six Inuit regions in the North that will be affiliated with the vessels include Nunavik, Nunatsiavut, and Inuvialuit, as well as Nunavut’s three sub-regions Qikiqtaaluk, Kitikmeot, and Kivalliq.
- The heart of Northern Affiliation is building connections and relationships between the people of a region and its associated ship. Working with youth groups, community members, and local leaders, Affiliation is meant to cultivate a deep relationship and instill a shared pride with the communities and the ship’s crew.
- Spanning three territories and stretching as far as the North Pole, the Canadian North comprises more than 40 percent of Canada’s territory and 75 percent of the nation’s coastline. The expanse of the Canadian North, coupled with its ice-filled seas, harsh climate, and more than 36,000 islands make for a challenging region to monitor.