Halifax, Nova Scotia – From June 9 to 18, 2025, the waters off the coast of Halifax, Nova Scotia, will host Exercise Cutlass Fury 2025 (Ex CF25), a major multinational naval exercise led by the Canadian Armed Forces. This biennial event, announced by the Department of National Defence, underscores Canada’s commitment to international security and defense cooperation through advanced maritime and air training operations.
A Collaborative Effort for Maritime Security
Exercise Cutlass Fury 2025 brings together naval and air forces from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Denmark for a robust training program focused on anti-submarine warfare and air-maritime integration. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability among allied forces, ensuring they can operate seamlessly in complex, real-world scenarios. Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz, Commander of Maritime Forces Atlantic, emphasized that the training will “reinforce Canada’s commitment to international security and defence cooperation,” highlighting the importance of strong alliances in maintaining global maritime stability.
Commodore Jacob French, Commander of Canadian Fleet Atlantic, described the exercise as an “invaluable opportunity” to refine tactics and strengthen ties with allied nations. By simulating challenging maritime environments, Ex CF25 allows participants to hone critical skills in anti-submarine warfare, air defense, and joint operational planning, ensuring readiness for potential threats.
Building on Canada’s Naval Legacy
The exercise comes at a pivotal time for Canada’s defense strategy, as the nation ramps up its military investments to meet NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending target by March 2026, as pledged by Prime Minister Mark Carney. This includes a significant $9 billion increase in defense spending for the 2025-26 fiscal year, aimed at modernizing equipment, enhancing digital infrastructure, and strengthening the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Such investments align with the goals of Ex CF25, ensuring that Canada’s naval forces remain a capable and reliable partner in international defense efforts.
The Royal Canadian Navy’s storied history, including its pivotal role in the Battle of the Atlantic during World War II, provides a backdrop for this exercise. The Navy’s expertise in anti-submarine warfare, developed through decades of operations, will be a focal point of the training, building on Canada’s legacy as a leader in maritime security.
A Regional and Economic Impact
Hosted near Halifax, a key hub for Canada’s Atlantic fleet, Ex CF25 will also bring economic benefits to Nova Scotia. The influx of international personnel and resources is expected to boost local businesses, while the exercise underscores Halifax’s strategic importance as a center for naval operations. The Department of National Defence’s ongoing investments, such as the River-Class Destroyer project, which will sustain over 5,000 jobs in Halifax over the next 15 years, further highlight the region’s role in Canada’s defense landscape.
A Commitment to Global Stability
Exercise Cutlass Fury 2025 is more than a training operation—it’s a demonstration of Canada’s dedication to fostering strong alliances and ensuring maritime security in an era of renewed global challenges. As Rear-Admiral Kurtz noted, the exercise strengthens the bonds between participating nations, preparing them to address emerging threats collaboratively. With the participation of allied forces and a focus on cutting-edge naval tactics, Ex CF25 positions Canada as a key player in international defense cooperation.