Canadian Armed Forces conduct Operation LATITUDE to strengthen Allied multi-domain operations in northern waters
Press Release
July 23, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is conducting Operation LATITUDE, a recurring operation that demonstrates Canada’s ability to operate routinely and effectively alongside allied forces in northern waters, including the Bering Sea.
Operation LATITUDE forms part of the CAF’s broader approach to enhanced Arctic and Northern operations and demonstrates the CAF’s commitment to defending the Arctic by maintaining a permanent presence and sustained operational activities across the region. The operation supports the CAF’s core missions to detect, deter, and defend Canada against potential threats, and contributes to the defence of North America in partnership with the United States (U.S.).
During Operation LATITUDE, the Royal Canadian Navy, the Royal Canadian Air Force, the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, and the Canadian Coast Guard conduct multi-domain operations in the Arctic in support of continental defence, working in close and long-standing cooperation with U.S. armed forces.
Conducted in alignment with NATO activities, including enhanced Vigilance Activity (eVA) ARCTIC SENTRY, Operation LATITUDE also reflects Canada’s responsibilities as both an Arctic nation and a founding member of NATO. eVA ARCTIC SENTRY brings NATO activities in the Arctic together under a single, overarching operational approach. Together, these efforts reinforce the Alliance’s security interests while promoting stability across the Arctic and the North.
Quotes
“Operation LATITUDE is a Canadian Armed Forces sovereignty operation conducted alongside our Allies in northern waters. Through regular, professional and coordinated activities, we reinforce Arctic sovereignty, protect Canada’s northern approaches and defend North American territory against evolving security threats.”
Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander, Canadian Joint Operations Command
Quick facts
Operation LATITUDE is a recurring CAF operation conducted in northern waters, including the Bering Sea, focused on enhancing awareness and interoperability in support of continental defence, and reinforcing the CAF’s ability to operate in a complex northern environment.
The operation includes His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa, HMCS Max Bernays, and HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, operating alongside U.S. armed forces as part of combined and joint multi-domain operations.
Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Aurora aircraft support the operation through long-range surveillance and reconnaissance, contributing to a layered understanding of northern maritime approaches.
Canadian Special Operations Forces Command members participate as part of routine Arctic activities, contributing specialized capabilities that support awareness and readiness in northern environments.
The Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Des Groseilliers participates alongside CAF and U.S. partners, demonstrating a whole-of-government approach to operating in Canada's Arctic and northern waters.
Operation LATITUDE supports the CAF's broader approach to enhanced Arctic operations, alongside activities conducted under Operation NANOOK, reinforcing Canada's permanent presence and near-persistent operations across the Arctic and the North.
Operation LATITUDE contributes to Canada's role in continental defence, strengthening cooperation with the U.S. and supporting a layered approach to awareness, deterrence, and defence across North America's northern approaches.