HMCS Winnipeg showcases fire power

HMCS Winnipeg fires a missile at a practice target off the coast of the Hawaiian Islands during Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC). Photo by Leading Seaman Valerie LeClair, Royal Canadian Navy

Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet ~

As part of RIMPAC, HMCS Winnipeg had the opportunity to practice the tactics and procedures involved in firing Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSMs) on Aug. 23 to 24 off the coast of Hawaii.

ESSMs are medium-range missiles used to protect ships from attacking missiles and aircraft. They provide self-defence battle space and firepower against high-speed, highly maneuverable anti-ship missiles in the naval environment.

A live-firing event is the culmination of months of training and preparation. It provides invaluable data about the ship’s combat management system and demonstrates the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) ability to conduct and support force generation overseas.

“Preparing for a missile shoot begins many months before the shoot itself, and is integrated with a demanding readiness programme that tests the skills and endurance of the entire operations team,” said Lt(N) Iain Richardson, Weapons Officer on board Winnipeg. “We are required to train not only for the shoot, but also for any and all possible system issues or emergencies. While the process is long, the privilege of participating in such an important exercise makes it entirely worthwhile.”

The biennial exercise contributes to the increased lethality, resiliency, and agility needed by the Joint and Combined Force to deter and defeat aggression by major powers across all domains and levels of conflict. The exercise provides a unique training opportunity that strengthens international maritime partnerships, enhances interoperability, and improves the readiness of the RCN for a wide range of potential operations.

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