After 29 years of service, HMCS Saskatoon, Whitehorse, and Brandon were formally retired at a ceremony at CFB Esquimalt on Monday (Sept. 29).
Commissioned in 1996, Kingston-class vessels trained countless sailors and supported domestic and international missions, including fishery patrols, search and rescue, and NATO exercises.
“As the first Kingston-class ships retire from service, we honour decades of operational excellence,” said Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee. “These ships served Canada with distinction, and I am extremely grateful to all those who served in or sustained them.”
“Their contributions have shaped the Royal Canadian Navy’s operational readiness and resilience, and their legacy will continue to influence the integration of the future fleet and the sailors who carry forward their spirit of resolve and commitment,” added Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz.
The Royal Canadian Navy’s remaining Kingston-class vessels will consolidate in Halifax, and the navy said the divestment will not reduce operational capability, as missions will be reassigned to existing assets and new platforms.
