By Peter Mallett
Her Majesty's Canadian Submarine (HMCS) Victoria recently achieved another milestone as part of its ongoing sea trials.
With the diesel electric submarine operating on the surface off Esquimalt, a CH148 Cyclone helicopter hovered above to practice transferring equipment and personnel to the sub below – a first for a Victoria-class submarine and this new helicopter.
“This serial allowed both units to update their standard operating procedures for helicopter transfer with this new airframe,” said Captain (Navy) Jean Stéphane Ouellet, Commander Canadian Submarine Force.
“The submarine crew gained valuable experience from this interaction.”
Victoria and its 48-person crew returned to sea on September 18 after a five-year hiatus in dry dock where it underwent routine maintenance, repairs and upgrades.
“The return of HMCS Victoria to sea marked a significant achievement for the Canadian Submarine Force and its submarine enterprise partners. It is the result of our collective hard work, resilience, determination and dedication,” said Capt(N) Ouellet.
As part of the five-year work period, Victoria received the new BQQ-10 sonar, also used on board United States Navy attack submarines, and a new battery.
“This new state-of-the-art sonar system will radically improve our ability to detect, classify and track quiet warships and submarines. It is a game changer for the class,” said Capt(N) Ouellet.
That return also marked the resumption of…
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