For six weeks in and around Hawai’i, thousands of military personnel came together for the world’s largest international maritime exercise. At Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) made significant contributions across multiple domains, demonstrating leadership, interoperability, and operational excellence alongside allies and partners from across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
Now in its 30th iteration, RIMPAC reached its largest scale ever, bringing together approximately 30,000 personnel from 30 Allied and partner nations, supported by 30 surface ships, five submarines, 15 national land forces, and more than 190 aircraft.
The CAF deployed more than 800 personnel, three ships, one submarine, and three aircraft. Brigadier-General (BGen) Jeff Davis served as Combined Force Air Component Commander (CFACC), a key leadership position reflecting Canada’s expertise, credibility, and commitment to joint force integration.
His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Ottawa, Regina, Corner Brook, and Motor Vessel (MV) Asterix conducted complex maritime operations that enhanced interoperability with Allied and partner nations. HMCS Ottawa fired two Mark (MK) 46 torpedoes, supporting the evaluation of upgraded anti-submarine warfare.
Captain(N) Landon Creasy commanded Task Group 170.1, a multinational task group responsible for coordinating allied ships, submarines, and aviation assets for joint maritime and anti-submarine warfare operations. He also served as Sea Combat Commander for a multinational force of up to 14 ships operating in support of a U.S. aircraft carrier strike group.
HMCS Corner Brook participated in a live-fire sinking exercise, contributing to the sinking of the decommissioned USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), utilizing a MK 48 heavyweight torpedo that sent the ship to the ocean floor.
Beyond maritime operations, CAF members contributed across multiple domains. Clearance Divers and Port Inspection Divers worked alongside international partners, while a Fleet Cyber Protection Team participated in RIMPAC’s stand-alone Defensive Cyber Operation for the second time, enhancing maritime security.
Canadian Forces Health Services led the exercise’s first Multinational Maritime Tactical Combat Casualty Care course. The Canadian Medical Emergency Response Team and Forward Surgical Team aboard USS Essex also conducted real-world casualty evacuations and surgical procedures.
The Royal Canadian Air Force contributed a CP-140 Aurora Long-Range Patrol Aircraft Detachment and two CH-148 Cyclone Maritime Helicopter Detachments. Additional CAF personnel supported the exercise in planning and execution roles ashore.
“RIMPAC 2026 demonstrated the extraordinary professionalism, capability, and adaptability of the CAF across every domain,” said BGen Davis. “Our personnel showcased Canada’s ability to integrate seamlessly with Allies and partners while contributing meaningfully to regional security and stability. The relationships strengthened during this exercise, combined with the operational experience gained, will enhance our collective readiness and ensure we remain prepared to address the security challenges of today and tomorrow.”
