Royal Canadian Navy Commissions HMCS Frédérick Rolette in Ottawa

The Royal Canadian Navy commissioned His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Frédérick Rolette into service during a ceremony held in Ottawa on June 13, 2025. The event included the presentation of the commissioning pennant to Commander Jolene Lisi and the hoisting of the ship’s ensign, in accordance with naval tradition.

According to National Defence, HMCS Frédérick Rolette is the fifth vessel in the Harry DeWolf class of Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels. The ship is intended to support patrol operations in Canada's Arctic and offshore waters.

National Defence reports that Harry DeWolf class vessels are designed for a variety of roles, including surveillance, humanitarian assistance, emergency response, and disaster relief. The department states that HMCS Frédérick Rolette has space to transport cargo, can carry small vehicles and deployable boats, and is expected to support a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter after future upgrades.

According to National Defence, HMCS Frédérick Rolette is named in honour of Lieutenant Frédérick Rolette, a Canadian-born officer who served during the War of 1812 and commanded the ship General Hunter. National Defence states the naming ceremony took place in May 2024, and the ship was delivered to the navy in August 2024. According to National Defence, the first vessel in the Harry DeWolf class was commissioned in June 2021.

During the ceremony, Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty stated that Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels are critical for defending Canada's waters. Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, recognized the crew's work in completing trials and training. Commander Jolene Lisi commented on her pride in the crew leading up to the commissioning.

National Defence also indicated that the sixth and final vessel in the Harry DeWolf class, HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, is under construction and expected to be delivered by August 2025.