Overview
- The Esquimalt-based Kingston-class vessel is conducting surveillance, boarding and maritime interdiction over a roughly two-month rotation that began in late January.
- Yellowknife is operating alongside partner surface assets and maritime patrol aircraft under the U.S. Coast Guard’s lead for law enforcement at sea.
- Defence officials emphasize that Operation CARIBBE is a distinct mission conducted with the U.S. Coast Guard and is separate from other U.S. operations in the region.
- Since 2006, the operation has contributed to disrupting or seizing more than 123 metric tons of cocaine, with over 2,200 kilograms interdicted by two Canadian ships in 2025.
- Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz highlights Canada’s commitment to regional partners, while the ship’s commanding officer says the crew is ready following a recent Operation REASSURANCE deployment.