The lead AOPS departed Halifax Shipyard at 0945 on November 22 and, using its diesel-electric engines, moved to the Bedford Basin to start initial builder’s sea trails associated with anchor handling, the integrated bridge and navigation system (IBNS), fin stabilizers, Multi-Role Rescue Boat (MRRB) launch and recovery, and communication systems.

Initial builder’s sea trials will continue over the next few weeks and will be followed by formal sea trials and acceptance by the Royal Canadian Navy. This will span into the first quarter of 2020.

HMCS Harry DeWolf AOPS performing builder’s at sea trials in late November (Credit: Irving Shipbuilding)

At 103 metres and 6,615 tonnes, the future HMCS Harry DeWolf is the largest Royal Canadian Navy ship built in Canada in 50 years.

There are currently four AOPS under construction at Halifax Shipyard, including the future HMCS Harry DeWolf. The future HMCS Margaret Brooke was launched on November 10, 2019 and is currently pier side where work continues to prepare the ship for sea trials and handover to the Royal Canadian Navy late next year.

Royal Canadian Navy’s first Harry DeWolf-class AOPS Completes Builder’s Sea Trials

On November 23, 2019, the shipbuilders at Halifax Shipyard completed a successful Builder's Sea Trial on the future HMCS Harry DeWolf, Canada’s lead Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS).

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