HMCS Montréal Completes Deployment in Indo-Pacific

His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal has returned to Halifax, Nova Scotia, after a six-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific region. The deployment was part of Operation HORIZON, which is Canada's mission to maintain a presence in the Indo-Pacific to support peace and stability. HMCS Montréal was the first of three Royal Canadian Navy ships to participate in this operation in 2024.

During its deployment, HMCS Montréal operated in various environments, including the North Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Indo-Pacific regions. The ship's crew engaged in military training exercises with international allies, showcasing Canada's commitment to international cooperation and security partnerships.

The operation is aligned with Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy, which aims to enhance engagement in the region. The strategy includes working with regional partners to promote a stable and secure Indo-Pacific. HMCS Montréal's crew consisted of approximately 240 members, including Royal Canadian Navy sailors and Royal Canadian Air Force aviators, who supported the ship's CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopter.

Operation HORIZON replaced the Indo-Pacific portion of Operation PROJECTION in 2023, expanding Canada's naval activities in the region to include contributions from the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force, and other Canadian Armed Forces elements.