Canada’s HMCS Fredericton frigate has resumed counterterrorism operations in the Gulf of Aden in response to increased al-Qaeda attacks in the region, according to a navy officer aboard the ship.

The frigate cancelled planned joint exercises with the Indian Navy and initiated the anti-terrorism patrols in the Gulf of Aden, according to Reuters.

HMCS Fredericton has fought piracy in the region previously and has now shifted its combat operations towards al-Qaeda attacks on ships.

The Halifax Class multirole patrol frigate has been in the region since October 2009 and is scheduled to return to its home port on 4 May 2010.

Fredericton has a displacement capacity of 4,750t, accommodation for 239 crew, and a top speed in excess of 30kt.