By Moderator, 16 July 2026
The RCN is, as usual, participating in RIMPAC 2026, a US-led exercise which is held every two years. This year’s RIMPAC involves 30 states, more than 30 surface ships, five submarines, over 200 aircraft and approximately 30,000 personnel operating around the Hawaiian Islands from 24 June to 31 July.
As part of the exercise, HMCS Ottawa (FFH 341) conducted a torpedo firing exercise. The ship launched a torpedo on 7 July off the coast of Hawaii as part of a simulated combat scenario. In addition to giving the crew valuable experience, the firing was a useful operational test for the ship’s newly installed Underwater Warfare Suite Upgrade (UWSU), an advanced underwater sensor and processing system to enhance the RCN’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The UWSU upgrade equips Halifax-class frigates with improved sonar technology and enhanced data processing systems. This will enable crews to detect and track quieter underwater targets at greater range and improve underwater situational awareness. The Halifax-class frigates are in the process of being upgraded through the UWSU program.
Image: HMCS Ottawa (FFH 341) conducts a torpedo firing in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Hawaii during the sea phase of Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2026, 7 July 2026. Credit: Screenshot taken from video by Royal Australian Navy Leading Seaman Imagery Specialist Shaun Chatfield
