HMCS Margaret Brooke Completes 119-Day Operation PROJECTION, Including First Antarctic Visit by Canadian Navy

His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Margaret Brooke has returned to Canada after completing a 119-day deployment as part of Operation PROJECTION, according to a news release from National Defence dated May 9, 2025. The deployment began on January 10, 2025, and included travel through South America, Antarctica, and the Caribbean. National Defence states that this was the first visit to Antarctica by a Royal Canadian Navy vessel and that the ship supported the first all-Canadian scientific research expedition to that region.

The ship’s return is especially relevant to communities with ties to the Canadian Armed Forces as it highlights Canadian involvement in international marine research and operations over several continents. National Defence’s account notes the involvement of multiple federal science agencies and international engagement throughout the deployment.

According to information provided by National Defence, HMCS Margaret Brooke’s journey included support for scientific research in Antarctica and participation in nine port visits and three Antarctic research station visits. The vessel travelled over 20,500 nautical miles during the mission. The embarked science team comprised members from Natural Resources Canada, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and Environment and Climate Change Canada. National Defence reports that the team’s research focused on marine and coastal geoscience and the impacts of climate change in the Antarctic region.

National Defence identifies HMCS Margaret Brooke as a Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel, designed for operating in polar and extreme climates. During the deployment, the Royal Canadian Navy states it conducted training, participated in regional exercises, engaged with regional partners, and carried out port visits. National Defence also reports that the mission included support for foreign diplomacy and scientific cooperation.

Operation PROJECTION is Canada’s ongoing naval mission to maintain a forward presence and conduct regular exercises, engagements, and port visits with international allies and partners, according to National Defence.