On May 29 and 31, 2025, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) William Hall, in collaboration with an embarked United States Coast Guard (USCG) Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET), achieved a significant victory in the fight against international drug trafficking.
While deployed in support of Operation CARIBBE, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) vessel intercepted and seized over 1,300 kilograms of cocaine during two separate maritime patrols in the Caribbean Sea, underscoring Canada’s commitment to regional security and multinational cooperation.
Operation CARIBBE: A Multinational Mission
Operation CARIBBE, Canada’s contribution to the U.S.-led Operation MARTILLO, is a multinational effort aimed at curbing the flow of illicit narcotics through the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Since 2006, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have played a pivotal role in this mission, deploying naval and air assets to monitor, disrupt, and intercept drug trafficking operations. HMCS William Hall, a Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel, is the second RCN ship deployed to the operation in 2025, following the successful mission of HMCS Harry DeWolf earlier this year, which resulted in the seizure of 750 kilograms of cocaine.
Seizure Operations and International Collaboration
During the patrols on May 29 and 31, HMCS William Hall deployed its multi-role rescue boats to intercept vessels of interest in the Caribbean Sea. Working seamlessly with the embarked USCG LEDET, the crew executed precise and effective operations, leading to the confiscation of more than 1,300 kilograms of cocaine—a substantial blow to illicit trafficking networks. This seizure highlights the robust partnership between the RCN and the USCG, with the integration of LEDETs on Canadian vessels enhancing the CAF’s ability to support multinational counter-narcotics efforts.
The success of HMCS William Hall’s mission reflects the strength of international collaboration under the Joint Interagency Task Force South, which coordinates efforts to enhance the safety and security of North America, the Caribbean, and South America. Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz emphasized the significance of these partnerships, noting that the deployment of HMCS William Hall demonstrates Canada’s unwavering commitment to combating illicit trafficking and fostering regional stability.
A Legacy of Impact
The CAF’s contributions to Operation CARIBBE over the past 17 years have been substantial, with over 123 metric tonnes of cocaine disrupted or seized since the mission’s inception. In 2024 alone, RCN vessels, including HMCS Margaret Brooke, Summerside, Edmonton, and Yellowknife, intercepted 2,710 kilograms of contraband. The recent achievements of HMCS William Hall build on this legacy, reinforcing Canada’s role in protecting communities from the dangers of illegal narcotics.
HMCS William Hall’s Mission
HMCS William Hall departed Halifax, Nova Scotia, on May 14, 2025, for its six-week deployment to Operation CARIBBE. Equipped for a range of missions, including surveillance and interdiction, the vessel’s advanced capabilities and highly trained crew have proven instrumental in its operational success. The Department of National Defence highlighted that these efforts not only disrupt the flow of illegal drugs but also strengthen Canada’s strategic partnerships with allies like the United States, ensuring safer communities across the region.
Looking Forward
As HMCS William Hall continues its mission, its contributions serve as a testament to the RCN’s dedication to international security and the ongoing fight against drug trafficking. The seizure of over 1,300 kilograms of cocaine marks another milestone in Operation CARIBBE, showcasing the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in safeguarding North America and beyond.