HMCS ''Summerside'' (MM 711) is a Kingston-class coastal defence vessel (CDV) of the Royal Canadian Navy. Named after the city of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, she is one of twelve such multi-role vessels built for the Canadian Forces.
Characteristics
''Summerside'' has a full load displacement of 990 tonnes. She measures 55.3 meters (181 ft 5 in) in length, with a beam of 11.3 meters (37 ft 1 in) and a draught of 3.4 meters (11 ft 2 in). The ship is powered by two L-3 Communications (CAT) 3516 diesel engines, each generating 1,600 horsepower (1,200 kW), driving two shafts with controllable pitch propellers. This propulsion system allows for a maximum speed of 15 knots (28 km/h; 17 mph) and an operational range of 5,000 nautical miles (9,300 km; 5,800 mi) at 8 knots (15 km/h; 9.2 mph). Her typical complement consists of 37 personnel, including 5 officers and 32 non-commissioned members.For armament, ''Summerside'' is equipped with one Bofors 40 mm/60 calibre gun mounted forward and two M2HB .50 calibre machine guns. Her sensor suite includes a Kelvin Hughes Type 1007 navigational radar and a Racal Decca 1229 search radar. As a multi-role vessel, she is designed to be highly versatile, capable of being configured for minesweeping, route survey, coastal patrol, or even a diving support role through the exchange of mission-specific modules.
Service History
The keel for HMCS ''Summerside'' was laid down on 28 February 1998 by Halifax Shipyards Ltd. in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She was launched on 26 September 1998 and officially commissioned into the Royal Canadian Navy on 28 July 1999. She is homeported at CFB Halifax and is assigned to Maritime Forces Atlantic (MARLANT).Throughout her career, ''Summerside'' has participated in numerous domestic and international exercises and operations. Her duties have included maritime surveillance, coastal patrol, search and rescue, and supporting naval training. She has frequently taken part in Operation CARIBBE, Canada's contribution to multinational efforts to combat illicit trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean. These deployments often involve interdicting drug shipments and conducting joint training with allied navies such as the United States Coast Guard. ''Summerside'' has also represented the Royal Canadian Navy in various port visits and diplomatic engagements, reinforcing international partnerships. As part of the Kingston-class, she embodies the versatility required for Canada's diverse maritime defence needs, operating in both national waters and supporting international security initiatives.