ESQUIMALT, BC – On January 29, 2025, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) achieved a historic milestone as all eight Orca Class training vessels sailed together in a coordinated display off the coast of Esquimalt. Known as the Photographic Orca Deployment Exercise (PODEX) 2025, this event underscored the RCN’s commitment to training and naval prowess.
The Orca Class, operated by the Patrol Craft Training Unit (PCTU) out of CFB Esquimalt, is typically used to provide hands-on training for naval personnel. These vessels are crucial for preparing sailors for the complexities of operating larger, more sophisticated warships. However, seeing all eight ships in formation is a rare sight due to maintenance schedules and operational demands.
This unique opportunity arose when all Orcas were simultaneously available, prompting Lieutenant-Commander Eric Lashinski, Commanding Officer of PCTU, to organize PODEX. “It’s just never worked out that we’ve had all of the ships out and available at the same time,” Lashinski noted. “To actually get out of the trainer side and come to sea is an amazing opportunity for everybody; it’s genuinely so important.”
The exercise was not only a visual spectacle but also a practical demonstration of seamanship, formation sailing, and group maneuvers. The precision involved in navigating eight ships in close formation is a testament to the skill and dedication of the RCN sailors and the effectiveness of their training programs.
The event was captured by S1 Brendan McLoughlin of MARPAC Imaging, showcasing the vessels sailing from Z-Jetty across Esquimalt Harbour. The sight of these sleek, grey training ships moving in unison was both a symbol of naval excellence and a nod to the RCN’s storied history.
For the trainees, this was more than just a routine exercise; it was a real-world application of the skills they’ve been honing. From managing small crew complements to understanding the nuances of naval tactics, every sailor aboard these vessels gained invaluable experience. The Orca Class ships, designed for training, offer a real-life platform where theoretical knowledge meets practical application, preparing sailors for the challenges of modern maritime operations.
The significance of PODEX 2025 extends beyond the immediate training benefits. It also serves as a motivational event for those considering a career in the Navy or those already serving. Seeing the fleet in action can inspire a sense of pride and community among naval personnel, reinforcing the bonds within the service.
This exercise also highlighted the RCN’s capability to coordinate complex operations with limited resources, a skill increasingly important in an era where naval forces must be agile and versatile. The RCN’s ability to mobilize all its Orca Class vessels for such a demonstration speaks volumes about its operational readiness and the meticulous planning that goes into naval training.