Royal Canadian Navy deploys ships to NATO Mine Countermeasures Mission in Europe
Press Release
July 7, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Today, His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Moncton and Edmonton departed their homeport of Halifax, Nova Scotia, to deploy on Operation REASSURANCE, where they will join Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One (SNMCMG1).
From July to October 2026, the ships will operate in European waters, contributing to continuous NATO maritime presence and security, while also advancing mine countermeasure operations.
As Kingston-class Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels (MCDVs), HMC Ships Moncton and Edmonton are equipped with advanced mine countermeasure capabilities, including the REMUS 100 Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and Royal Canadian Navy clearance diving teams. As part of Canada’s continuing commitment to NATO and to the security of the Euro-Atlantic region, this mission will focus on detecting and neutralizing historic sea mines, promoting safe navigation, and protecting critical undersea infrastructure.
Operating as part of SNMCMG1, HMC Ships Moncton and Edmonton will integrate with Allied navies to conduct specialized mine countermeasure operations in strategically significant waters. This deployment demonstrates Canada’s capacity to project maritime capability abroad while contributing directly to safe and secure sea lines of communication.
Quotes
“NATO’s collective defence and international maritime security remain paramount to Canada and the continuing safety of our and Allied nations' security. His Majesty’s Canadian Ships Moncton and Edmonton, deploying in support of Operation REASSURANCE, will not only showcase their professionalism and strengths but will also demonstrate the Royal Canadian Navy’s will to deliver excellence at sea in partnership with our Allies.”
Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz, Commander, Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic
“What sets His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Moncton apart is the strength and cohesion of its crew. Every sailor brings a unique skill set, and it’s their collective effort, discipline, and trust in one another that enable us to succeed. As we deploy with Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One, our team is ready to contribute meaningfully alongside our Allies and uphold the high standards expected of the Royal Canadian Navy.”
Lieutenant-Commander Justin Wong, Commanding Officer, HMCS Moncton
“The crew of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Edmonton has spent months preparing and training for Operation REASSURANCE, and I could not be prouder of the hard work they have put in as we begin this next chapter. As we join Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One, our entire team stands ready to represent the Royal Canadian Navy and Canada while working in the European region.”
Lieutenant-Commander Michael Ronaldson, Commanding Officer, HMCS Edmonton
Quick facts
SNMCMG1 provides NATO with a continuous maritime capability for operations in peacetime and crisis, enhancing readiness and interoperability among Allies.
Operation REASSURANCE is Canada’s largest overseas military operation, supporting NATO’s deterrence and defence posture in Central and Eastern Europe since 2014.
HMC Ships Moncton and Edmonton are Kingston-class MCDVs with a ship’s company of approximately 45 personnel of all ranks for a total of 90 sailors. They are equipped with REMUS 100 Autonomous Underwater Vehicles, capable of conducting rapid environmental assessments and seabed surveys to detect underwater threats.
Canada has deployed Royal Canadian Navy ships to NATO’s Standing Naval Forces on a persistent rotational basis for over a decade, reinforcing its role as a reliable and capable Ally.