Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) Louis S. St-Laurent, Canada’s largest, most powerful icebreaker, reached the North Pole on August 16 as part of its 2026 Arctic deployment.
The transit supports Canada’s work to define the country’s continental shelf and map its outer limits under the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea.
As part of the ongoing 2024-2027 missions in support of Natural Resources Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Louis S. St-Laurent is collecting high-resolution geoscience and hydrographic data in the Arctic.
Canadian Coast Guard icebreakers are able to reach remote and hard-to-access areas across Canada’s Arctic.
The Canadian Coast Guard’s summer operational season runs annually from June to November to support Northern communities, carry out services, and support government of Canada Arctic missions.
“The arrival of CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent at the North Pole is an important milestone that reflects Canada’s enduring commitment to the Arctic,” said David J. McGuinty, minister of national defence. “Supported by the expertise of Canadian Coast Guard personnel, this mission advances scientific knowledge, strengthens our presence in the North, and reinforces Canada’s sovereignty and security.”
