The Ocean Pacific Marine Store & Boatyard in Campbell River, British Columbia, has secured a $74.7 million contract to build the next generation of RCMP patrol boats, a deal that will create up to 30 new jobs at the Vancouver Island facility.
Contract Details and Job Creation
The federal contract, announced July 3, 2026, calls for the construction of multiple patrol vessels designed for coastal and inland waterway operations. The shipyard expects to add up to 30 positions to its workforce over the next two years as production ramps up.
“This contract is a significant win for Campbell River and demonstrates the federal government's commitment to investing in Canadian shipbuilding,” said a spokesperson for the shipyard. The new boats will replace aging RCMP vessels and feature enhanced capabilities for law enforcement missions.
Economic Impact on Vancouver Island
The deal is expected to provide a substantial economic boost to the Campbell River region, which has a strong maritime industrial base. Local suppliers in metal fabrication, electronics, and marine equipment are likely to benefit from subcontracts. The project also aligns with a broader B.C.-Ottawa framework agreement focused on growing Vancouver Island's shipbuilding, forestry, and coastal economies.
Construction is slated to begin later this year, with delivery of the first vessels expected in 2028. The RCMP currently operates a fleet of patrol boats for coastal security, drug interdiction, and search and rescue operations.
