Canadian Armed Forces launch Operation NANOOK‑TUUGAALIK in Canada’s Arctic
Press Release
August 14, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have launched Operation NANOOK‑TUUGAALIK, a serial of Operation NANOOK running from August through October that focuses on maintaining a maritime presence in the Arctic, enhancing regional awareness, and strengthening the CAF’s ability to operate effectively in remote northern environments.
During the operation, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Robert Hampton Gray will be joined by the Canadian Coast Guard and other Canadian government departments as well as naval forces from the United States, France, and Denmark, as they transit through waters of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago conducting activities including patrols, surveillance, community engagement, and refuelling. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allied participation will strengthen interoperability and shared maritime awareness in the region.
Conducting Operation NANOOK-TUUGAALIK in collaboration with allies and partners will reinforce Canada’s sovereignty and demonstrate our commitment to strengthening NATO’s Arctic posture. Throughout the year, Operation NANOOK serials are conducted in coordination with NATO activities, including the enhanced Vigilance Activity ARCTIC SENTRY which contributes to NATO deterrence and defence efforts, further reinforcing collective security and resilience across the Alliance and the Arctic.
Quotes
“Operation NANOOK‑TUUGAALIK demonstrates how Canada works effectively with allies and partners in the Arctic maritime domain. OP NANOOK is the Canadian Armed Forces’ operation to detect activities across waters of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, to deter actors from challenging Canadian sovereignty and be postured to defend it.”
Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander, Canadian Joint Operations Command
“TUUGAALIK showcases the professionalism and adaptability of our sailors operating side‑by‑side with Allied partners in one of Canada’s most demanding maritime environments. These operations strengthen how we integrate, communicate, and respond together at sea—capabilities that are essential to Canada’s defence and to Allied security in the Arctic.”
Rear-Admiral Pascal Belhumeur, Commander, Maritime Forces Atlantic
“For our ships, crews, and allies, TUUGAALIK is about spending time where it matters most: on the water, in the Arctic, exercising together to build familiarity with the region and maintaining awareness at sea. Every patrol deepens our understanding of the operating environment, our capabilities, and strengthens the relationships we have with communities and partners across the North.”
Commander Brian Henwood, Commanding Officer, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray and Task Force Commander
Quick facts
Operation NANOOK is Canada’s signature Arctic operation, and Operation NANOOK‑TUUGAALIK is one of several serials that will be conducted in 2026.
Operation NANOOK also includes serials NUNALIVUT, QIMAAVIVUT, TAKUNIQ, TATIGIIT, and NUNAKPUT.
Operation NANOOK serials are conducted year‑round, supporting near‑persistent CAF operations that are enabled by Canada’s permanent military presence in the Arctic and North.
Operation NANOOK‑TUUGAALIK focuses on maritime presence and surveillance across Canada’s Arctic and northern waters.
Royal Canadian Navy Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels such as HMCS Robert Hampton Gray are designed to operate effectively in northern waters and remote environments.
Environmental stewardship and respectful engagement with northern communities remain central to Operation NANOOK‑TUUGAALIK. Operations are planned and conducted to minimize environmental impact, respect local conditions, and avoid placing additional strain on northern infrastructure and resources.
NATO’s enhanced Vigilance Activity ARCTIC SENTRY brings NATO activities in the Arctic together under a single, overarching operational approach. By integrating Allied capabilities, the activity enhances visibility of military movements and enables coordinated planning and execution across the region.