The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has deployed its Halifax-class frigate HMCS Winnipeg to support Operation NEON in the East China Sea region.

Operation NEON is Canada’s contribution to multinational efforts to monitor and disrupt North Korea’s ongoing efforts to evade UN Security Council (UNSC) sanctions.

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The frigate, along with its embarked CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, will carry out its mission throughout October and November this year.

A Royal Canadian Air Force Detachment from 405 Long Range Patrol Squadron, based in 14 Wing Greenwood, will also support the mission.

The detachment, comprising of nearly 50 personnel and a CP-140 Aurora Long Range Patrol Aircraft, will join the ship next month.

Maritime Component Commander rear-admiral Brian Santarpia said: “The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has been operating in the Asia-Pacific region for decades.

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“The presence of HMCS Winnipeg and a CP-140 Aurora not only provides us with the opportunity to work with partner nations to enhance military cooperation, help build trust, and bolster partnerships, but also demonstrates our commitment to international security in the region, and the importance of upholding the United Nations Security Council sanctions regime against North Korea.

“The ship’s company of HMCS Winnipeg has worked tirelessly demonstrating utmost professionalism with our international partners during Operation PROJECTION, and I know they will continue to do so during Operation NEON.”

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is supporting the multinational initiative for the third time.

It offers CAF opportunities to train and engage with foreign navies and other international security partners.

HMCS Ottawa, HMCS Regina, HMCS Calgary, and HMCS Vancouver are the other Halifax-class frigates that were deployed in the past in support of the mission.

Operation NEON was launched last year. Nations such as Australia, France, Japan, New Zealand, the UK and the US also support the initiative.

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