Backgrounders

Halifax-class modernization (HCM) / Frigate life extension (FELEX)

The twelve Halifax-Class frigates, commissioned between 1992 and 1995, form the backbone of the Canadian Navy. The ships were originally designed to accomplish the Cold War missions of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), primarily in the open ocean environment.

In the years following the end of the Cold War, the role of the Halifax Class has changed. Current and evolving threats are faster, stealthier, more manoeuvrable, and are moving from open ocean areas to the littoral (near-shore) environment. The littoral environment poses challenges to sensors and weapons systems due to higher traffic density and proximity to shore-based threats. In addition, ships now face asymmetrical threats, such as terrorist attacks, that had not been envisaged when the ships were designed.

Innovations in procedures and tactics have enabled the frigates to operate effectively in the new threat environment, despite equipment limitations. However, sensor and weapons enhancements are needed in order to enhance the ships’ ability to deal with these new threats into the future.

The HCM/FELEX project will manage both the modernization of the combat systems and a planned mid-life ship refit program to ensure the frigates remain effective to the projected end of their service life. This work will encompass modernization of the ships’ platform, including ships’ systems upgrades, acquisition and installation of new capabilities, such as enhanced radar, changes to the platform needed to accommodate the new capabilities, and integration of all aspects of the ships’ operations into an upgraded command and control system.

The HCM/FELEX project and other separately-funded projects within the Halifax-Class Modernization program will bring enhanced capabilities to the ships, which are required to meet the new threats and changing operating environments. These include:

HCM/FELEX

• A new command and control system;
• New radar suite;
• IFF Mode S/5 – Interrogator Friend or Foe Mode S/5;
• Internal communications system upgrade;
• Harpoon Missile system upgrade (surface to surface); and
• Electronic warfare system upgrade;

Other HCM projects

• Long-range infrared search and track system (SIRIUS); and
• Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (surface to air) ESSM.

Maintenance and sustainment activities and projects will strive to maintain equipment at its current level of capability. These include:

• Preventive, corrective and unique mid-life maintenance activities;
• Modifications to the BOFORS 57mm Naval Gun;
• Replacement of the Shield II Missile Decoy Countermeasures System;
• Replacement of the Integrated Machinery Control System; and
• Replacement of the Navigation Radar.

There will also be several follow-on, stand-alone contracts let outside the HCM/FELEX project to complete other needed upgrades, such as accommodation for the Cyclone Maritime Helicopter and the new Military Satellite Communication System.

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