Canada’s Department of Defence has officially inaugurated a reconstructed jetty at the Esquimalt military base located in Victoria, British Columbia. This significant infrastructure project, which cost approximately 1.1 billion Canadian dollars (around $767.9 million), is a crucial component of a larger initiative aimed at modernizing the harbor and its stationed assets.
The newly launched jetty is designed to accommodate the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) incoming vessels as part of the government’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. This includes critical ships such as the Joint Support Ships and the Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessels. With the integration of “modern technologies” and the use of sustainable materials in its construction, the facility aims to enhance the installation’s capabilities to respond effectively to climate change impacts and to natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis.
Emphasizing the importance of the reconstruction, Canadian Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan highlighted the role of CFB Esquimalt as the second-largest military base in Canada. He stated, “The Defence Team members stationed there require the appropriate infrastructure to support their vital work in defending our country.” Sajjan remarked that this investment represents the largest enhancement to the Royal Canadian Navy since the Second World War, underscoring the commitment to modern infrastructure needed to support the newly acquired naval fleets.
The project, which spanned four years, also had substantial economic implications, supporting nearly 1,300 jobs during its construction phase. The Department of Defence has indicated that these positions will be retained as work begins on the development of a second jetty at the site, which is anticipated to be completed by 2031.
Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair stated, “This milestone will ensure the Royal Canadian Navy has the critical infrastructure it needs at Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt to accommodate the next generation of Canadian naval vessels.” He expressed pride in the progress being made as part of the A/B Jetty Recapitalization Project, highlighting its significance in strengthening Canada’s military capabilities.
The inauguration event marks a pivotal moment for the Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt and the Royal Canadian Navy, reinforcing both infrastructure and operational readiness for the challenges ahead.
