Vancouver Shipyards to develop non-combat ships for Canadian Coast Guard

Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards has been selected by the Canadian government to build up to 10 additional large non-combat ships for the Canadian Coast Guard.

Under the estimated cost of $3.3bn contract, awarded through the Government’s National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS), Vancouver Shipyards will build up to five medium endurance multi-tasked vessels and up to five offshore patrol vessels.

Public Works and Government Services Minister Diane Finley said that the contract will support long-term benefits of the Government’s National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy in developing a sustainable shipbuilding industry in Canada.

"The National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy is a key priority of the Harper Government as we create jobs and generate significant economic benefits in shipbuilding and other industries all across Canada,” Finley added.

The contract follows previously awarded task orders for the development of offshore fisheries science vessels, offshore oceanographic science vessel, and first Polar Icebreaker that will be constructed at Vancouver Shipyards for the Canadian Coast Guard.

"Today’s announcement illustrates our commitment to eliminating boom and bust cycles, while providing best value for taxpayers, and ensuring affordable and timely delivery of ships," Finley further added.

Image: A Canadian Coast Guard’s medium endurance multi-tasked vessel, CCGS Bartlett stationed at a port. Photo: courtesy of Government of Canada/seaspan.