Rear-Admiral Steven Waddell, the deputy commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, began his career during a period of fleet expansion in the 1990s, with new Halifax-class frigates and a robust fleet of destroyers. In a recent interview with Playbook, Waddell discussed the ambitious plans to rejuvenate Canada’s naval capabilities, despite current challenges.
The Navy is grappling with an aging fleet and recruitment issues that have strained its operational effectiveness. Reports have consistently highlighted these problems, emphasizing the Navy’s struggles to maintain its defense responsibilities.
Canadian Navy’s deputy commander reflects on fleet aging and recruitment challenges as efforts to rejuvenate continue
Waddell addressed these difficulties, emphasizing the Navy’s efforts to adapt despite a 21 percent shortfall in staffing, which has affected its ability to operate ships safely. To counteract this, the Navy has had to innovate with its human resources, moving away from traditional ship assignments to more flexible rotations.
Reflecting on past experiences, Waddell reminisced about a time of high operational tempo and morale. Today, however, he acknowledges the need for focused leadership to address current challenges while meeting government objectives. This situation is far from ideal, requiring constant adjustment.
Ship repairs have become increasingly complicated due to aging vessels and scarce spare parts. Technicians are forced to be inventive, fabricating parts and using tools like lathes, welding kits, and 3D printers to maintain operational capability.
Waddell also noted the challenge of “maritime blindness” — the general public’s lack of awareness about the importance of a strong naval presence. This issue affects the Navy’s ability to advocate for its needs effectively.
Finally, when asked about the military’s frustration with federal defense spending, Waddell was cautious but reiterated the Navy’s commitment to its requirements. He acknowledged the broader fiscal challenges facing Canadians, including education and healthcare, while stressing that defense investment decisions at the end rest with the government.
