Following the official naming ceremony held on August 9 in Halifax, the Royal Canadian Navy formally commissioned the HMCS Robert Hampton Gray, the sixth and final Arctic patrol vessel of the Harry DeWolf class. With this delivery, the planned shipbuilding program is now complete, and the vessel, along with its crew, will begin a period of trials in different maritime environments before its full entry into service in 2026. Its arrival marks a decisive step in strengthening Canada’s presence in the Arctic and expanding its ability to monitor and safeguard the nation’s strategic maritime spaces.
The Robert Hampton Gray is part of a class of ships designed to carry out patrol, escort, and support missions in demanding environments such as the Arctic. With a displacement of over 6,000 tons, a length of 103.6 meters, and Polar Class 5 certification, these patrol ships are built to operate in icy waters.
Its armament includes a BAE Mk 38 25 mm cannon and 12.7 mm Browning machine guns, as well as a flight deck and hangar for aircraft such as the Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone or CH-149 Cormorant helicopters. These features make them versatile units capable of conducting surveillance, logistical support, and humanitarian assistance missions.
Since the first of these patrol ships entered service in 2021, the Harry DeWolf class has demonstrated remarkable operational performance. Its vessels have taken part in international missions such as CARIBBE, HORIZON, and NANOOK, have circumnavigated North America, and have reached Antarctic waters. They have also provided support to the population during emergencies under Operation LENTUS, consolidating their role as a flexible and highly capable platform for the Royal Canadian Navy.
Ahead of its full integration, the HMCS Robert Hampton Gray will undergo sea trials, climate testing, and post-delivery assessments. Its commissioning ceremony is scheduled for 2026, after arriving at its home port in Esquimalt, British Columbia. With this vessel, the Royal Canadian Navy completes a modern series of six Arctic patrol ships, reinforcing a key strategic capability for national sovereignty and the control of maritime spaces.
Image credits: Royal Canadian Navy
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