BC Launches New Military Ship Named After Illustrious Naval Hero
A Canadian Navy vessel named HMCS Protecteur is ready to set sail once again, almost ten years after the retirement of the previous supply ship with a prestigious history.
The new joint support ship, the longest naval vessel ever constructed in Canada, was unveiled at a ceremony at Seaspan’s shipyards in North Vancouver, B.C., amid rainy weather. The event was attended by dignitaries, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
This ship is the first of two joint support vessels being built in British Columbia for the Canadian Navy. Seaspan has confirmed that work is progressing well on the second ship, HMCS Preserver, set to be delivered in 2025.
The prior supply ship bearing the name was decommissioned in 2015 following a severe engine-room fire off Hawaii the year before, concluding almost 46 years of service in various conflicts, including the Gulf War.
During the traditional christening ceremony, Trudeau was present, but it was HMCS Protecteur sponsor Teri McKinnon who successfully smashed a champagne bottle on the vessel after initial attempts failed.
Highlighting the construction of the new vessel, Trudeau hailed the launch as a “historic moment,” commending the shipbuilders as a prime example of Canada’s global appeal for investment.
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“In a world of vast connections and opportunities, people continue to choose Canada as a destination for investment,” Trudeau addressed the audience in attendance.
“Individuals keep coming because our greatest asset is the Canadian people,” he remarked. “Our workforce is exceptional—intelligent, ambitious, dedicated, and hardworking. They are our strongest selling point when the world looks for a reliable partner.”
Following the ceremony, Royal Canadian Navy Commander Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee expressed the emotional significance for naval officers to witness the ship’s return to the sea.
“The original HMCS Protecteur has a significant legacy of 45 years of service, and we are honored to continue that tradition,” Topshee stated.
“While it was challenging to experience the fire on board Protecteur, it serves as a reminder that maritime operations are demanding, risky, and at times, dangerous. We must always be prepared for emergencies like fires, floods, or other perils at sea, including potential military threats,” he added.
The Protecteur marks the fifth vessel constructed by Seaspan under the National Shipbuilding Strategy launched in 2010.
Joint support ships like HMCS Protecteur play a crucial role in providing fuel, food, water, and ammunition to other navy ships, allowing them to operate at sea for extended durations without needing to return to port.
