The CCGS Donjek is equipped with modern communications systems and is designed for multi-mission flexibility. This will strengthen the Canadian Coast Guard’s ability 

Halifax, Nova Scotia – National Defence / Canadian Coast Guard : The Canadian Coast Guard celebrated the launch of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Donjek in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Donjek is the first of two Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships being built for the Canadian Coast Guard by Irving Shipbuilding Inc. as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy.

CCGS Donjek design

Designed to increase the Canadian Coast Guard’s patrol and icebreaking capabilities, the CCGS Donjek will assist with a variety of missions, including offshore fisheries patrols, conservation and protection, and search and rescue operations along Canada’s east coast. It will also support operations across the Canadian Arctic.

Modern communications systems 

The CCGS Donjek is equipped with modern communications systems and is designed for multi-mission flexibility. This will strengthen the Canadian Coast Guard’s ability to operate effectively in remote and coastal communities. The vessel is equipped with a medical cabin and modular accommodation, enabling it to provide humanitarian assistance and resupply communities when required.

Its adaptable design allows it to support a broad range of operations, including scientific research, aids to navigation, and emergency response, ensuring it can respond to evolving operational demands.

Investment of the Canadian government 

In the 2025–26 financial year, the Canadian government invested over $63 billion in defence and security, strengthening national preparedness and supporting the renewal of federal maritime capabilities. These investments included substantial funding for equipment and infrastructure, as well as for the domestic shipbuilding industry. This included the construction of new Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships for the Canadian Coast Guard.

Strengthen Canada’s maritime capability

It has never been more important to strengthen Canada’s maritime capability and support national security with modern assets. These investments will enable the Canadian Coast Guard to continue providing essential services in the Arctic and along Canada’s extensive coastline.

Expanding our shipbuilding capacity

The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, said ‘Today’s launch of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Donjek is an important step forward in strengthening Canada’s maritime presence, particularly in the Arctic. By constructing modern vessels here in Canada, we are expanding our shipbuilding capacity, creating employment opportunities, and equipping our personnel with the necessary tools to safeguard Canadians, deliver vital services, and maintain the cleanliness and safety of our waters.”

CCGS Donjek is a major advancement

Kevin Brosseau, Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, emphasised, “The launch of the CCGS Donjek is a major advancement for the Canadian Coast Guard. With modern capabilities and a shared class with the Royal Canadian Navy, this vessel will deepen our collaboration at sea and expand our ability to support fisheries patrols, conservation and protection, provide humanitarian assistance, and serve coastal and northern communities with reliability and flexibility - wherever our personnel are needed.”

The launch of the future CCGS Donjek 

Dirk Lesko, President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc., added, “The launch of the future CCGS Donjek is another milestone achieved on our mission to deliver quality ships for Canada. The teamwork and dedication of our workforce continue to produce results that demonstrate that Irving Shipbuilding is Canada’s National Shipbuilder.”

Quick facts

• Following successful sea trials, CCGS Donjek is expected to be delivered to the Canadian Coast Guard in late 2026, followed by the second Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship, the CCGS Sermilik, in 2027.

• The construction of the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships is part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy. It represents a key contribution to renewing the Canadian Coast Guard fleet, revitalising Canada’s shipbuilding industry, and providing Coast Guard personnel with the modern vessels they need to deliver essential services.

• Following the successful delivery of six Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships – also known as the Harry DeWolf‑class – to the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Coast Guard variant of the ship benefits from the lessons learned across the class, resulting in improved integration and efficiency in construction.

• Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the Government of Canada is renewing the Canadian Coast Guard’s fleet with modern, Arctic‑capable vessels – including two Polar Icebreakers, up to six Program Icebreakers, two Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships, and up to sixteen Multi‑Purpose Icebreakers – to provide our personnel with the ships they need to protect mariners, safeguard Canada’s maritime borders, and support Arctic sovereignty well into the future.

#Dirk Lesko #Kevin Brosseau # David J. McGuinty Canadian Coast Guard#(CCGS) Donjek #Offshore Patrol Ships #Canada’s east coast