Media...

08.01.2008 - Wheelwash

On April 21, a new frigate upgrade contract was awarded to Victoria Shipyards (VSL). This new contract solidifies the reputation that VSL is the preferred Centre of Excellence for frigate construction and repair.

The first phase of the program the refit of up to three frigates, commenced with the drydocking of HMCS Vancouver on May 5. The second phase will include the mid-life refit work/upgrades to all five frigates currently operating on the west coast.

"This is the largest contract in Victoria Shipyard�s 15-year history," said Malcolm Barker, VSL Vice President and General Manager. "The multiplier effect in the economy from these types of contracts is typically about two or three times the value of the contract."

This contract will create 110 new direct jobs at VSL and provide economic stability for 450 workers already at the yard.

Dubbed the FELEX Program (Frigate Life Extension), the 12-year program is estimated at a combined total of $900 million to maintain and upgrade Canada�s 12 Halifax class frigates. The contracts are part of a $3.1 billion naval modernization program.

Federal Public Works Minister Michael Fortier was in Victoria to confirm that the five CFB Esquimalt-based frigates, starting with the HMCS Vancouver, would be modernized at VSL.

"These contracts will create many local jobs," said Minister Fortier. "They will reinforce a Centre of Excellence for the frigates on the Pacific coast and reduce the risk of relying on foreign shipyards. Canada depends on a qualified workforce to repair vessels."

"VSL is committed to providing the Canadian Navy with the company�s full attention throughout the year as focus is given to the beginning steps of the FELEX Program, and our ongoing commitments to other naval vessels located at CFB Esquimalt," said Malcolm.

The twelve Halifax Class Frigates launched during the period 1988 to 1995 form the backbone of the Canadian Navy. The ships were designed in the late 1970�s and early 1980�s to accomplish the Cold War Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW) missions primarily in the open ocean environment.

The Halifax Class Modernization (HCM) Program is primarily a risk mitigation project to ensure that the modernization of the Halifax Class is achieved in a timely, efficient, effective and coordinated manner. Effective risk mitigation will be achieved through the following specific activities: scope management, design integration engineering, integrated risk management across all elements of the HCM, schedule coordination, and implementation/installation management.

Capability Enhancement projects will be implemented during the FELEX program to introduce new capabilities into the ships, which are required to meet the new threats and changing operating environments.