Halifax, Nova Scotia – On May 14, 2025, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) William Hall departed from Halifax, Nova Scotia, embarking on a six-week mission to join Operation CARIBBE, Canada’s contribution to the U.S.-led enhanced counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean Sea. The deployment underscores Canada’s ongoing commitment to international security and combating illicit drug trafficking in the region.
HMCS William Hall, a state-of-the-art Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel, is designed for a range of missions, including surveillance and interdiction operations. This marks the ship’s first deployment to Operation CARIBBE since its commissioning into the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) in May 2024. The vessel will operate under the Joint Interagency Task Force South, working closely with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and regional partners to detect and intercept illegal narcotics trafficking.
The deployment follows the recent success of HMCS Harry DeWolf, which, on March 1, 2025, assisted in the seizure of 750 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately $26.9 million CAD in the Caribbean Sea. This operation highlighted the strong collaboration between the RCN, the USCG, and regional allies, including Colombian air and maritime assets. HMCS William Hall aims to build on this momentum, with a USCG Law Enforcement Detachment embarked on board to enhance interdiction efforts.
“The deployment of HMCS William Hall to Operation CARIBBE demonstrates Canada’s unwavering commitment to international security and our dedication to combating illicit trafficking in the Caribbean,” said a National Defence spokesperson. “The strong partnerships we maintain with our allies, particularly the United States and the US Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment embarked in HMCS William Hall, are crucial in ensuring the success of these operations and in keeping our communities safe.”
Operation CARIBBE, ongoing since 2006, is a cornerstone of Canada’s efforts to address security challenges in the Caribbean region. The mission focuses on disrupting the flow of illegal narcotics into North America, supporting international efforts to combat organized crime. Over the years, Canadian Armed Forces assets, including naval vessels and aircraft, have contributed to the interception of more than 123 tonnes of cocaine, significantly impacting the operations of transnational criminal organizations.
Commander Kelemen, speaking on behalf of HMCS William Hall, emphasized the mission’s broader impact: “This deployment is about more than just interdicting drugs—it’s about strengthening regional security and disrupting organized crime. Working alongside our U.S. Coast Guard partners, we’re proud to contribute to a safer Caribbean and a safer North America.”
As HMCS William Hall sails southward, the crew of approximately 65 personnel is prepared for a demanding mission requiring vigilance, coordination, and adaptability. The ship’s advanced sensors and versatile design make it well-suited for the surveillance and interdiction tasks ahead. Social media posts from the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Forces expressed pride in the crew, wishing them “fair winds and following seas” as they undertake this critical operation.
The departure of HMCS William Hall reinforces Canada’s role as a reliable partner in international counter-narcotics efforts. As the ship navigates the Caribbean waters, its mission will not only target the flow of illicit drugs but also strengthen the bonds of cooperation with allies, ensuring a united front against transnational crime.