Chantier Davie Canada Inc. is improving its shipyard in Quebec as it gears up to build new icebreakers. (Davie photo)
By David Pugliese
Chantier Davie Canada Inc. is improving its shipyard in Quebec as it gears up to build new icebreakers.
Davie announced the signing of an agreement with Construction Dinamo Inc. of Quebec for the delivery of construction and supervision services for key sub-projects within the major upgrade of Davie’s Lévis shipyard.
The upgrade is to meet National Shipbuilding Strategy requirements and respond to the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE Pact) opportunities.
Davie also announced the signing of an agreement with Pearlson & Pearlson Inc. of Florida as part of the upgrade.
Pearlson has led the design and development for several of the world’s leading shipbuilding and ship repair companies, including BAE Systems, Austal USA, and Fincantieri Marine Group, according to Davie.
The Quebec firm noted that its construction strategy includes the expansion plan for six new state-of-the- art buildings, the refurbishment and modernization of existing structures, significant waterfront upgrades, and the establishment of a new assembly hall and launch pad.
The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) has been awarded a contract from the United States Department of Defense for an advanced winch system developed by Rolls-Royce Canada’s Naval Handling business. The system will be used to deploy, tow, and recover sonar equipment.
CCC is the designated contracting authority for U.S. DoD purchases from Canada.
Through CCC’s contract, valued up to $110 million, Rolls-Royce Canada will supply the OK-410 handling and stowage group system to the US Navy’s Naval Undersea Warfare Centre (NUWC), along with spare parts and engineering services.
The NUWC operates multiple facilities across the United States and is seen as being vital in ensuring the US Navy’s technological edge in submarine and undersea operations, according to the CCC.
Rolls-Royce Canada’s winch system is designed to launch, tow, and retrieve the multi-function towed array (MFTA) for the AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 ASW combat system.
The winch system can handle heavy tow loads and incorporates “advanced control systems that enable precise maneuvering and positioning of the MFTA in the water”, which is essential for effective sonar operations, according to the CCC news release about the deal.
Located in Peterborough, Ontario, Rolls-Royce Canada develops advanced naval handling systems for navies around the world, including the mission bay handling system for the Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates.
CCC also announced Jan. 8, 2025 that it had been awarded a $14 million (U.S. dollar) contract with the United States Department of Defense to supply QinetiQ’s Vindicator and related services to the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD). The Vindicator is an Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle - Target designed to simulate the threat of missiles and aircraft for air defence systems.
The Vindicator is built to withstand challenging conditions and rigorous training scenarios, enhancing military readiness and proficiency, according to the CCC.
QinetiQ is a UK-based company with a Canadian facility, located in Medicine Hat, Alberta. It specializes in areas such as autonomous systems, robotics, and cybersecurity.
