Today's HMCS Algonquin

HMCS ALGONQUIN (DDG 283) is an area air defence destroyer. Its advanced communications capability and extra accommodations make it an ideal command and control platform. Built in the early 1970s, in the early 1990s it was extensively converted and refitted with sophisticated anti-air weapons systems, an improved propulsion plant, and advanced weapons and communications systems. Like Canada's newer Halifax-class Canadian Patrol Frigate, ALGONQUIN is equipped with one of the world's most advanced integrated combat control systems. In peacetime, ALGONQUIN can employ its high-tech systems for a variety of important missions, from search and rescue to fisheries and sovereignty patrols. ALGONQUIN's homeport is Esquimalt, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island.

The name ALGONQUIN means "At the place of spearing fish and eels" . Its name was connected to a First Nations People who ranged throughout a vast territory from Georgian Bay in the West, to the St. Maurice River in the East and who made their living by hunting and fishing. The Algonquin people provided an honourable heritage for the ships which were to bear the name of their tribe.

ALGONQUIN’s Helicopters

ALGONQUIN can embark two twin engine CH 124 Sea King gas turbine medium range helicopters. These aircraft have been extensively modified to carry out their role in anti-submarine warfare, operating as an integral extension of the ship’s weaponry. The Sea King is also used to identify vessels and build awareness of the maritime environment.

The Sea King helicopter’s crew consists of two pilots, a tactical coordinator (TACCO) and an airborne electronic systems operator (AESOP). The CH 124A Sea King is equipped with variable depth sonar, radar for surface search and is instrumented for all weather missions. The CH 124B aircraft is fitted with sonobouy processing equipment and is able to passively detect and track submarines. Both aircraft are capable of carrying two MK 46 anti-submarine torpedoes.

Air operations in rough seas are possible with the aid of the Canadian designed “Beartrap” or Helicopter Hauldown Rapid Securing Device.

HMCS ALGONQUIN
SHIP'S BADGE AND MOTTO

SHIP'S MOTTO: A Coup Sur (With Sure Stroke)
SHIP'S COLOURS: Gold and Azure Blue

Blazon: A base of silver and blue waves from which extends a warrior's arm decorated with a silver arm and wrist band, holding a fish-spear transfixing a golden eel.

Significance: This was one of the best badge designs produced during the war before ship's badges were issued officially. Of such excellence of design and appropriateness in suggesting this destroyer's activities in anti-submarine warfare, it has been accepted as the official badge.

Date modified:

3/19/2012

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