Rolls-Royce has announced a significant collaboration with the Royal Canadian Navy to supply propulsion and handling systems for the initial trio of River-class destroyers (RCD). This agreement marks a pivotal step in enhancing Canada’s maritime defense capabilities.
As part of the contract, Rolls-Royce will provide each destroyer with an MT30 marine gas turbine, the advanced Mission Bay Handling System, and MTU Series 4000 diesel generators. The signing of the contract for the MT30 and Mission Bay system was conducted with Irving Shipbuilding, the designated prime contractor for the RCD project. Meanwhile, the terms regarding the supply of diesel generators are being finalized in partnership with Wajax Power Systems, a Canadian-based licensee of Rolls-Royce.
Bruce Lennie, Rolls-Royce’s Vice President of Government Relations, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are both proud and excited to support the newest surface program of the Royal Canadian Navy. Rolls-Royce’s expertise in power, propulsion, and specialized handling systems will bring critical capabilities to the RCD and help significantly enhance Canada’s maritime defence.”
The River-class destroyer initiative is a cornerstone of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy, representing the largest and most intricate ship-building effort in the country since World War II. A total of 15 ships are planned under this ambitious program, with production of the first batch set to kick off in April. Completion of the first vessel is anticipated in the 2030s, while the final ship is expected to be delivered in the 2050s.
The design of the River-class destroyer draws inspiration from the BAE Systems Type 26 warship, which is under construction for both the Royal Navy and the Royal Australian Navy’s Hunter-class frigate project. The other two ships within the initial batch will also feature the same Rolls-Royce technologies, ensuring uniformity across the fleet.
The dimensions of the River-class destroyer are substantial, measuring 151 meters (497 feet) in length. This new vessel will replace the aging Halifax frigates and Iroquois destroyers currently in service with the Royal Canadian Navy. Equipped with a suite of weaponry, including naval guns, autocannons, missiles, and torpedoes, the warship will also support a complement of about 210 personnel alongside drones, helicopters, and support boats, thereby enhancing its operational versatility.
