Québec City, June 13, 2025 – The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) officially welcomed His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Frédérick Rolette into service today during a commissioning ceremony held at the Port of Québec, Pier 22. The event marked a significant milestone for the RCN, as the vessel becomes the fifth Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) to join the fleet, enhancing Canada’s maritime presence in Arctic and coastal waters.
The ceremony, attended by government officials, naval personnel, and community members, featured the symbolic presentation of the commissioning pennant to the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Jolene Lisi. Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, highlighted the ship’s role in asserting Canadian sovereignty, stating, “HMCS Frédérick Rolette and its crew are integral to asserting our sovereignty in Arctic and coastal waters.”
HMCS Frédérick Rolette is designed to operate in challenging Arctic environments, supporting a range of missions including surveillance, search and rescue, and international cooperation with allies. With the capacity to transport cargo, deploy small vehicles and boats, and eventually embark a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, the ship is equipped to contribute to global peace and security. “Welcoming a ship into service with the Royal Canadian Navy is always a significant milestone for our sailors,” said a naval spokesperson, noting the crew’s months of rigorous trials and readiness training.
The Harry DeWolf-class vessels are a cornerstone of Canada’s defense strategy, as outlined in the policy Our North, Strong and Free. These ships bolster the RCN’s ability to enforce sovereignty in Canadian waters and address emerging defense challenges in the North. The commissioning of HMCS Frédérick Rolette comes as Canada increases defense investments, with Prime Minister Mark Carney and Minister McGuinty recently announcing a $9 billion boost to defense spending for the 2025-26 fiscal year, aiming to reach 2% of GDP.
Named after Frédérick Rolette, a notable figure in Canadian naval history, the ship represents the RCN’s commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing modern capabilities. The sixth and final AOPS, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, is currently in production and expected to be delivered by August 2025, completing the Harry DeWolf-class fleet.
Following the ceremony, the public is invited to tour HMCS Frédérick Rolette on Saturday, June 14, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Port of Québec, offering a chance to see the vessel up close. The RCN also livestreamed the commissioning on its Facebook page, engaging Canadians nationwide in this historic moment.
As HMCS Frédérick Rolette embarks on its service, it stands as a symbol of Canada’s dedication to safeguarding its waters and strengthening its role on the global stage.