Vanguard Magazine

www.vanguardcanada.com OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023 9 S SIT REP For the interview, see page 44 www.rheinmetall.ca • Reconnaissance and sensor systems • Command and control systems • Weapon systems and ammunition • Countermine technology • Protective systems and passive protection • Simulation and training systems NAVALDEFENCE A0360e0923_Canada Naval Defence_7x4,625 inch.indd 1 A0360e0923_Canada Naval Defence_7x4,625 inch.indd 1 30.08.23 21:38 30.08.23 21:38 to completion (start to finish) a full three months faster than AOPS 3, HMCS Max Bernays. Given that production of HMCS William Hall was heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, this is truly a remarkable achievement, and one which speaks to the world class shipbuilding capability we are establishing here in Atlantic Canada." Since the inaugural deployment of the first vessel in the class, HMCS Harry DeWolf, in 2021, these ships have been engaged in numerous missions, spanning Canada's Arctic regions, the Southeastern Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and providing assistance during the Hurricane Fiona response in Newfoundland. While post-acceptance work, sea trials, and final ship preparations are being finalized, HMCS William Hall will remain stationed at His Majesty's Canadian Dockyard Halifax before its official commission- ing into the RCN fleet. "We are producing shipbuilders locally through our ap- prenticeship program, the largest in Atlantic Canada. These people will have the opportunity to work their entire ca- reers here at the Halifax Shipyard thanks to the NSS. The fact we have seen such growth in our efficiency, even with so many new shipbuilders, is really something to be proud of," added Mr. Lesko. In line with Canada's defense policy, known as "Strong, Secure, Engaged," the Government of Canada continues its commitment to deliver state-of-the-art, functional, and efficient vessels required by the RCN for its operations. Simultaneously, this endeavor contributes to the resur- gence of Canada's marine industry by generating hundreds of new jobs, all as part of Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy. Born in 1827 in Horton, Nova Scotia, William Hall, the off- spring of former American slaves, made history by becoming the first Black individual, as well as the first Nova Scotian and one of the earliest Canadians, to be bestowed with the esteemed Victoria Cross, the British Empire's highest com- mendation for acts of valor. His noteworthy achievement in the Royal Navy earned him this prestigious recognition. During an era dominated by wooden vessels, Hall's for- mative years were marked by aspirations shared by many young boys, dreams of navigating the globe aboard sailing ships. Before embarking on his naval career in 1852, Hall spent several years laboring in shipyards at Hantsport fol- lowing a period of employment aboard merchant vessels. Some Key Characteristics of the future HMCS William Hall: • Length: 103.6 metres • Beam: 19.0 metres • Speed (open water): 17 knots • Complement: 65 crew + 20 embarked forces • Endurance: 120 days • Range: 6,800 nautical miles at 14 knots • Integrated diesel-electric power and propulsion • Bow thruster for maneuvering and berthing without tug assistance • Retractable active fin stabilizers for roll reduction • Ability to operate and hangar a CH-148 Cyclone or small utility helicopter

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