Canadian Government signs $9.3-million preliminary contract for Irving to create strategy for AOPS shipbuilding project
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, welcomed the signing of a preliminary contract with Irving Shipbuilding Inc. as part of the Arctic Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) project being implemented under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS).
This preliminary $9.3-million contract will enable Irving Shipbuilding Inc. to conduct a review of the existing AOPS design and specifications and create an execution strategy for the AOPS project.
The AOPS will provide the Royal Canadian Navy with the flexibility to operate in Arctic and other offshore environments year-round, asserting and enforcing Canadian sovereignty, including domestic surveillance, search and rescue, and supporting other government departments.
“We have entered into a long-term relationship with Irving Shipbuilding, and we are pleased to see the awarding of this contract. This is the first in a series of contracts leading to the delivery of new ships for the Royal Canadian Navy,” said Minister Ambrose.
The National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy—the largest procurement sourcing arrangement in Canadian history—is expected to create thousands of high-value jobs in shipbuilding and related industries across the country.