Build contract for arctic offshore patrol ships announced

The ships will be known as the Harry DeWolf Class, named after Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf, a Canadian naval hero of the Second World War.

The build contract for the construction of six Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) has been announced.

Irving Shipbuilding Inc. has the contract, valued at $2.3 billion, which marks the start of the construction phase under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS). The contract has been designed to ensure that risks are properly managed and shared throughout the build process. It provides strong incentives for Irving Shipbuilding to take full advantage of its state-of-the-art facilities and to pass any efficiency savings on to Canada.

This will ensure best value for taxpayers, and sets out the plan for the delivery of six ships within a ceiling price. AOPS has been designed to provide the RCN with a platform to conduct year-round patrols out to the limits of Canada’s economic exclusive zone in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and most importantly in the Arctic during the navigable season.

The ships will provide active surveillance, perform constabulary duties, and respond to any urgent situation as required. One of the most important capabilities AOPS will possess is its ability to navigate in ice, critical for ships that operate in the Arctic. The ships will be known as the Harry DeWolf Class, named after Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf, a Canadian naval hero of the Second World War.

Construction of an initial block is scheduled for the summer, while full production will commence in September 2015. Delivery of the first AOPS is expected in 2018.

DND