Canadian frigate conducts joint transit through Taiwan Strait amid regional tensions.

According to information published by the US DoD on October 20, 2024, the U.S. Navy's Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) and the Royal Canadian Navy's Halifax-class frigate HMCS Vancouver (FFH 331) completed a joint transit through the Taiwan Strait.
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Royal Canadian Navy's Halifax-class frigate HMCS Vancouver. (Picture source: Canadian DND)

The operation, described as routine by both navies, underscores their commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation in this critical waterway, which is claimed by China as part of its territorial waters. The transit occurred amidst heightened military activity in the region, with China recently conducting large-scale military exercises around Taiwan.

HMCS Vancouver

HMCS Vancouver is a Halifax-class frigate of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) that has been heavily involved in operations across the Indo-Pacific in 2024. As part of Operation Horizon, it has been deployed in the region for six months, contributing to international maritime security and stability efforts.

A milestone for the ship during this deployment was its participation in the first forward missile rearmament outside North America, a complex operation conducted in Broome, Australia. This involved loading Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM), a critical part of the frigate's air defense system.

Canada-China relations

Canada's defense relations with China and Taiwan are shaped by distinct geopolitical considerations and policies. Canada's relationship with China has become increasingly strained, especially following tensions over Chinese interference in Canadian affairs and China's aggressive posture toward Taiwan.

Recent diplomatic exchanges between Canada and China, including defense ministers' meetings in 2024, have focused on sensitive issues such as foreign interference, China's military activities around Taiwan, and its support for Russia. Although Canada remains committed to dialogue with China, there is growing concern over Beijing’s actions in the Taiwan Strait, where Canada participates in U.S.-led naval exercises to assert freedom of navigation. These actions have drawn strong responses from China, reflecting broader regional tensions.

On the other hand, Canada's ties with Taiwan are shaped by the "One China" policy, which limits formal defense relationships. However, Canada has engaged in unofficial defense and trade-related exchanges with Taiwan. These include the provision of military technology and expertise for Taiwan's naval capabilities, as well as collaboration on resilience-building in areas such as cybersecurity. Additionally, Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy has highlighted the importance of Taiwan as a key economic and strategic partner, particularly in terms of technology and supply chain security, though military cooperation remains constrained by its official stance on Taiwan's status.