Canadian Coast Guard to boost SAR capability with 27 new vessels

Zodiac Hurricane Technologies has received two contracts the Canadian Government for the supply of 27 new inshore rescue vessels to support search and rescue (SAR) capability of the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG).

Valued at a combined $7.6m, the contracts cover the delivery of 18 station-based vessels, and nine ship-based vessels, which will be stationed across the country to support the Canadian Coast Guard’s SAR operations, gather science data, and assist conservation and protection officers.

Canadian National Revenue Minister and Delta-Richmond East Member of Parliament Kerry-Lynne Findlay said: "Upon completion, these boats will support vital search and rescue operations for the Canadian Coast Guard at various locations across the country including here in British Columbia.

"Not only are these investments supporting Canadian Coast Guard personnel, they are also resulting in job creation, economic growth and long-term prosperity in communities like Delta and, indeed, right across Canada."

The contracts are financed through the government’s $5.8bn Federal Infrastructure investment announced in November 2014, which will continue to build and renew existing infrastructure and important assets across Canada.

Approximately $183m is to be provided to CCG for repair, life extension of current vessels, as well as acquisition of new vessels and small craft.

Currently, the CCG fleet in British Columbia includes six helicopters as well as 34 vessels, including 11 large vessels, seven small vessels, three air cushion vehicles, and 13 SAR lifeboats,

The CCG also has three staffed equipment depot sites with ocean boom, large skimmers, pumps, power equipment, storage tanks and small vessels and 14 other smaller caches of equipment.