Search and Rescue technicians from 103 Squadron, Gander, N.L., aboard a CH-149 Cormorant, conduct a hoist rescue exercise with the crew of HMCS Shawinigan during Operation Nanook 14. Jeremy Barrieau Photo
Operation Nanook 14, the premier annual Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) operation held in Canada’s North, is taking place in Nunavut from Aug. 20 to 29, 2014. The operation is showcasing personnel from all branches of the CAF working in close partnership with federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments and agencies, aboriginal communities, and two other Arctic nations, Denmark and the United States.
The operation is centered on two scenario-driven events. A search and rescue exercise (SAREX), held from August 20 to 23 in the Davis Strait, featured a simulated fishing vessel in distress, with Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Halifax leading the SAREX to locate the vessel and survivors. From Aug. 25 to 29, CAF personnel are responding to a simulated 50-passenger cruise ship grounding due to mechanical difficulties.
The CAF is working with a ship from the Royal Danish Navy and a surveillance aircraft from the United States Navy during the SAR portions of Op Nanook that take place in international waters. Both scenarios underline the focus of the CAF at home: exercising sovereignty and supporting the safety and security of Canadians.
Other government departments participating in Op Nanook 14 include:
- Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada;
- Canada Border Services Agency;
- Canadian Coast Guard;
- Environment Canada;
- Government of Nunavut;
- National Search and Rescue Secretariat;
- Public Health Agency of Canada;
- Public Safety Canada;
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police;
- Transport Canada; and
- Transportation Safety Board of Canada.
