Canadian Naval Ships Return from Baltic Sea Deployment
His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Glace Bay and Shawinigan have returned to Halifax, Nova Scotia, after a four-month deployment in the Baltic Sea. The ships were part of the Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) under Operation REASSURANCE, a mission supporting NATO's deterrence and defense measures.
During the deployment, the ships participated in training exercises with naval forces from Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Belgium. On August 29, HMCS Shawinigan monitored a Russian submarine and surface vessel in the Baltic and North Seas, later handing over the task to the Royal Navy's HMS Iron Duke on September 1.
Operation REASSURANCE involves the Canadian Armed Forces contributing to NATO's maritime, air, and land task forces. The mission aims to enhance international security and stability through joint exercises and operations with allied nations.
HMCS Glace Bay and Shawinigan departed Halifax on July 13, 2024, and their return marks the completion of their assignment with SNMCMG1.