
Orca-Class Introduces Small Arms Capability to Boost Maritime Readiness
Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. The RCN introduced a new small-arms capability aboard Orca-class training vessels at CFB Esquimalt. Sailors conducted a live-fire shoot aboard COUGAR off Constance Bank on April 22. The initiative strengthens operational readiness, weapons training, and at-sea safety procedures. - A sharp crack echoed across the waters off Constance Bank on April 22 as members of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) conducted a live-fire shoot aboard the Orca-class Patrol Craft Training (PCT) vessel Cougar. This shoot forms part of a broader effort to introduce small-arms operational capabilities aboard the RCN’s Orca-class vessels, which are operated by members of Patrol Craft Training Unit (PCTU). While Orca-class vessels are primarily utilized as training platforms, the introduction of embarked weapons reflect both the changing realities of the global modern maritime environment and the RCN’s renewed focus on operational readiness at every level of training. “The introduction of a small-arms capability on the Orca-class reflects an evolving security environment,” said Lieutenant(Navy) (Lt(Navy)) Jeremy Morissette. “There is growing recognition that even training platforms must be prepared to operate safely and credibly in a range of situations.” This new capability includes the C8 and C22 rifles, and C6 machine gun. For PCTU, the capability represents more than simply adding weapons to a platform — it also reinforces the principle of ‘we train as we fight,’ bridging the gap between a training environment and an operational environment. [caption id="attachment_336261" align="aligncenter" width="600"] S1 Nathan Anderson reiterates C8 procedures prior to the small arms shoot conducted aboard PCT vessel COUGAR on April 22. Photo: S1 Jordan Schilstra, MARPAC Imaging[/caption] “The Orca-class vessels are arguably the RCN vessels that see the most sea days year-round, and where many sailors will have their first sailing experience,” said Lt(Navy) Morissette. “Having weapons onboard allows sailors from all ranks to gain exposure to weapons procedures at sea while also making the vessels...














