Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a significant investment of $11.3 billion by the federal government into Quebec’s shipbuilding sector to construct six new icebreakers for the Canadian Coast Guard. This project marks the largest shipbuilding agreement in Quebec’s history, aimed at replacing the aging heavy and medium icebreakers currently in use by the coast guard, fulfilling a commitment made in 2019.

During the announcement at the Chantier Davie shipyard in Lévis, Que., Carney emphasized the swift progress of the project, with the first steel cutting scheduled for next fall. The delivery of the first ship is expected in five years, followed by the full fleet becoming operational five years thereafter. These new icebreakers will be deployed in various regions, including Atlantic Canada, the St. Lawrence River in winter, and the Arctic in summer.

Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette, who joined Carney at the announcement, described the investment as a significant milestone for Lévis and stressed its positive impact on the province’s economic sovereignty. The contract is poised to create numerous job opportunities, particularly for welders and technicians, supporting around 5,000 jobs during the construction phase.

Furthermore, Carney highlighted that the vessels will adhere to the federal government’s “Buy Canadian” procurement policy, utilizing Canadian steel in their construction. This move aligns with efforts to strengthen the domestic shipbuilding industry and support local manufacturing.

The announcement of this substantial funding comes amid escalating trade tensions with the United States, following collapsed trade negotiations and new tariff threats from President Donald Trump targeting Canadian industries. In line with the national shipbuilding strategy, which aims to deliver a total of 88 new vessels by 2045, this investment underscores Canada’s commitment to modernizing the Canadian Coast Guard’s fleet.