On 29 April, 2026, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Canadian Coast Guard celebrated the launch of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Donjek, the first of two Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships being built for the Canadian Coast Guard at Irving Shipbuilding Inc., as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy.
Canadian Coast Guard press release
Built to expand the Canadian Coast Guard’s patrol and icebreaking capacity, the CCGS Donjek will support a wide range of missions, including offshore fisheries patrols, conservation and protection, and search and rescue operations along Canada’s east coast. The vessel will also support operations across the Canadian Arctic.
Equipped with modern communications systems and designed for multi-mission flexibility, the CCGS Donjek will strengthen the Canadian Coast Guard’s ability to operate effectively in remote and coastal communities. The vessel includes a medical cabin and modular accommodations, enabling humanitarian assistance and community resupply operations 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.
In fiscal year 2025–26, Canada invested more than $63 billion in defence and security across government, strengthening national readiness and supporting the renewal of federal maritime capabilities. These investments include significant funding for equipment, infrastructure, and the domestic shipbuilding industry, including the construction of new Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships for the Canadian Coast Guard.
Strengthening Canada’s maritime capability and supporting national security with modern assets has never been more important. These investments ensure the Canadian Coast Guard can continue delivering critical services in the Arctic and along Canada’s vast coastline.
“Today’s launch of the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Donjek marks an important step forward in strengthening Canada’s maritime presence—particularly in the Arctic. By building modern vessels here at home, we are growing Canada’s shipbuilding capacity, supporting good jobs, and ensuring our personnel have the tools they need to protect Canadians, deliver essential services, and keep our waters safe and clean.”
The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence“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 continues to produce results that demonstrate that Irving Shipbuilding is Canada’s National Shipbuilder.”
Dirk Lesko, President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc.-End-
Naval News comments:
Based on the Harry DeWolf‑class AOPS in service with 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.
