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Department of National Defence
The Department of National Defence (DND) announced the integration of the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) into the Defence Team on Sept. 2.
It marks an important step forward in strengthening Canada’s maritime security. This change will enhance coordination across government and ensure Canada is even better prepared to safeguard its waters and coastline.
“I am honoured to welcome the Canadian Coast Guard to the Defence Team. This transition is an important step that will allow us to better coordinate our efforts at sea, strengthen our response to new and evolving threats, and ensure the safety and security of Canadians. By working more closely together, we are building on a trusted partnership and enhancing Canada’s ability to protect its waters and sovereignty,” Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty stated in a DND press release.
By joining the National Defence, the CCG will add its world-class expertise and capabilities to efforts that protect Canada’s sovereignty, building on its legacy of protecting Canada’s maritime interests and resources. This transition also includes key personnel from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, bringing greater collaboration across departments in support of Canada’s maritime priorities.
“For more than 60 years, the Canadian Coast Guard has stood as one of Canada’s most trusted and respected institutions. That trust is built every day by the dedicated people who are the backbone of this proud organization. This move will help strengthen joint operations with security and intelligence partners, enabling us to respond more quickly and keep communities safe,” Minister of Fisheries, Joanne Thompson, said.
The CCG will remain a civilian Special Operating Agency, with no change to its status. It will continue to play its vital role in search and rescue, icebreaking, environmental response, safe navigation, and ocean science. To complement and build on this transition, the Government of Canada has also proposed expanding the CCG’s services to include maritime security activities under Bill C-2, which is currently before Parliament. With this, the CCG will be positioned to do even more to protect Canadians at sea and support national security.
Through this integration, the CCG, DND, and the Canadian Armed Forces will be able to work more closely than ever, sharing information and coordinating operations to meet emerging challenges. This is especially important in the Arctic and other regions where cooperation is essential to keep Canada safe and secure.
The inclusion of the CCG in the Defence Team is a milestone that reflects the Government of Canada’s commitment to strengthening maritime security, advancing collaboration, and ensuring a strong and coordinated presence in Canada’s waters.
“Today marks an important milestone as the Canadian Coast Guard joins the Department of National Defence. This historic step will strengthen our collaboration, enhance our capabilities, and improve our service to Canadians,” Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard, Mario Pelletier, said.
Quick Facts
· The CCG officially became part of DND with the signing of an Order in Council this week.
· In 2005, the CCG was established as a Special Operating Agency, a national institution and operator of the Government of Canada’s civilian fleet. This provided the CCG with a degree of autonomy and operational flexibility to deliver its maritime services and act as a service provider to other government departments.
· Today, the CCG is a nationally recognized and world-leading symbol of service and safety. They ensure the safety of all mariners on our waters, protect our marine environment, and support our economic growth.
· As of July 2025, the CCG’s fleet of 126 vessels includes icebreakers, search and rescue lifeboats, patrol ships, science vessels, hovercraft and more.
· The CCG is the federal lead for marine search and rescue in Canada.
