Canadian Navy Ships Depart for NATO Mine Countermeasures Mission in Europe

Two Royal Canadian Navy vessels have departed Halifax to begin a four-month deployment in European waters as part of a NATO maritime security mission.

His Majesty's Canadian Ships Moncton and Edmonton left their home port on July 7 to join Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group One under Operation REASSURANCE, Canada's contribution to NATO's deterrence and defence efforts in Europe.

The deployment will run from July to October 2026 and will see the vessels participate in mine countermeasure operations while supporting NATO's ongoing maritime presence in the region.

The ships, both Kingston-class Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels, are equipped with specialized mine-hunting technology, including REMUS 100 autonomous underwater vehicles and Royal Canadian Navy clearance diving teams.

According to the Department of National Defence, the mission will focus on locating and neutralizing historic sea mines, improving maritime safety and helping protect critical undersea infrastructure.

While operating with allied navies as part of SNMCMG1, the Canadian vessels will conduct specialized mine countermeasure operations in strategically important waters across Europe.

Federal officials said the deployment highlights Canada's continued commitment to NATO and the security of the Euro-Atlantic region, while demonstrating the Royal Canadian Navy's ability to contribute to international maritime operations and maintain secure sea routes.