Winnipeg showcases Halifax Class Modernization in London

A member of the Enhanced Naval Boarding Party stands sentry as the ship transits the Thames River.

After almost three months of operations in the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, HMCS Winnipeg took a break from operations to sail up the River Thames and sit centre stage at the Defence and Security Equipment international (DSEi) exhibition from Sept.15-18.

DSEi is the largest defence industry trade show in the world and is held every second year in London, United Kingdom.

Winnipeg was in attendance at this year’s event to support the Canadian Armed Forces’ defence industry partners by showcasing one of the final products of the Halifax Class Modernization project.

“It was an honour to support the Canadian defence industry at DSEi. Operations would not be possible without the steadfast support we receive from the Canadian defence industry,” says Commander Pascal Belhumeur, Commanding Officer of Winnipeg.

“We are proud to represent the Royal Canadian Navy at the show. Winnipeg celebrated its twentieth birthday on June 23 and it has never looked better.”

The ship’s company provided tours of Winnipeg to event guests, defence industry representatives, foreign military and government officials, and trade representatives, as well as friends and family.

The command team co-hosted two industry luncheons and the ship served as the venue for the Canadian defence industry networking reception attended by more than 250 guests.

“Our Canadian defence industry participants, Government of Canada partners and DSEi event staff were extremely impressed by the hospitality and professionalism of the team on board Winnipeg,” said Daniel Salisbury, International Program Officer for the Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel).

Upon completion of the event, Winnipeg sailed back out the River Thames to re-join Standing NATO Maritime Group One and put its enhanced capabilities to work in support of Operation Reassurance, Canada’s contribution to NATO assurance measures in Europe.

SLt Jamie Tobin
HMCS Winnipeg