Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship Project

The Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) project will deliver six ice-capable ships, designated as the Harry DeWolf Class, after Canadian wartime naval hero Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf. The Official RCN ship's class designation will be Arctic/Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV).

The AOPV will be capable of:

  • armed sea-borne surveillance of Canada's waters, including the Arctic
  • providing government situational awareness of activities and events in these regions
  • cooperating with other partners in the Canadian Armed Forces and other government departments to assert and enforce Canadian sovereignty, when and where necessary.

Construction of the first AOPV will began in 2015, with HMCS Harry DeWolf scheduled for delivery in 2018.

The announced names of the Harry DeWolf-class ships to date are:

  • HMCS Harry DeWolf (AOPV* 430)
  • HMCS Margaret Brooke (AOPV* 431)
  • HMCS Max Bernays (AOPV* 432)
  • HMCS William Hall (AOPV* 433)
  • HMCS Frédérick Rolette (AOPV* 434)

* Official RCN ship's class designation

Specifications:

Length: 103 metres

Beam: 19 metres

Complement: 65

Features:

  • Integrated Bridge Navigation System
    • Modern integrated bridge, from which control of navigation, machinery, and damage control systems can be performed.
  • Multi-Purpose Operational Space
    • Where operational planning and mission execution will be coordinated.
  • BAE Mk 38 Gun
    • Remote controlled 25 mm gun to support domestic constabulary role.
  • Enclosed Focsle/Cable Deck
    • Protects foredeck machinery and workspace from harsh Arctic environment.
  • Helicopter Capability
    • Depending on the mission, the embarked helicopter could range from a small utility aircraft right up to the new CH-148 maritime helicopter.
  • Cargo/Payloads
    • Multiple payload options such as shipping containers, underwater survey equipment, or a landing craft. Ship has a 20-tonne crane to self-load/unload.
  • Vehicle Bay
    • For rapid mobility over land or ice, the ship can carry vehicles such as pickup trucks, ATVs, and snowmobiles.
  • Diesel/Electric Propulsion
    • Propulsion: ‎two 4.5 propulsion MW (induction) motors, and four 3.6 MVA generators.
  • Retractable Active Fin Stabilizers
    • Deployed to reduce ship roll for open ocean operations, retracted for operations in ice.
  • Multi-Role Rescue Boats
    • Top speed of 35+ knots, 8.5 metres long. Will support rescues, personnel transfers, or boarding operations.
  • Bow Thrusters
    • To enable manoeuvring or berthing without tug assistance.