Irving Shipbuilding awards metals supply contract for Canada’s new River-class

Russel Metals has officially become a part of Irving Shipbuilding’s supply chain, contributing to the construction of the new River-class destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy. The contract, valued at approximately $6.05 million, will be executed by Russel Metals’ workforce at its Dartmouth facility and Halifax operations. This partnership marks a significant step in supporting Canada’s naval capabilities.

Contract Details and Impact

The contract entails the supply of essential materials, including steel plates, profiles, and aluminum sheets, which are crucial for manufacturing parts of the River-class destroyers. In addition to material supply, Russel Metals will oversee procurement, logistics coordination, and inventory management, ensuring that deliveries align with Irving Shipbuilding’s production schedule. This streamlined approach will enhance efficiency and support a national supply chain, with materials being delivered directly to Irving Shipbuilding and various fabricators across Canada.

Irving Shipbuilding delivers 5th AOPS to the Royal Canadian Navy

John Reid, President and CEO of Russel Metals, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “Our relationship with Irving Shipbuilding began in 1987, and it’s built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to Canadian industry.” He emphasized that this partnership not only supports skilled jobs in Nova Scotia but also allows Russel Metals to contribute significantly to the construction of ships for Canada’s Navy.

Lee Fromson, Vice President of Supply Chain and Quality at Irving Shipbuilding, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Russel Metals’ strong ties to the Halifax community. He remarked, “With its strong Nova Scotian roots and deep ties to the Halifax community, Russel Metals is exactly the kind of partner we are proud to welcome into the River-class destroyer project.”

Progress on River-Class Destroyers

Irving Shipbuilding has recently made notable progress on the River-class destroyers, having successfully lifted and flipped the first unit for the future HMCS Fraser. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the construction process. Preparations are now underway for the next major phase, with the keel-laying of the lead ship anticipated later this year. This development underscores the ongoing commitment to enhancing Canada’s naval fleet and ensuring that the Royal Canadian Navy is equipped with modern and capable vessels.