Operations
Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy Relieves Ship Commander
Mishall RehmanThe Commanding Officer of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa has been relieved of his duties due to a loss of confidence, according to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).
The RCN issued a statement Thursday, February 6, 2025, confirming that VAdm. Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, relieved Commander Adrian Lozer. The ship is currently deployed on Operation HORIZON.
“This measure was deemed necessary to ensure effective leadership in HMCS Ottawa as it continues its deployment in the Indo-Pacific region. The incidents that gave rise to this decision do not concern any form of misconduct,” read the RCN statement.
Procedural fairness
The RCN says upon his return to Canada, Commander Lozer will fill other roles within Maritime Forces Pacific. The RCN says it will be sure to follow through on adhering to any protocol pertaining to his conduct.
“Procedural fairness will continue to be respected throughout all follow-on administrative processes. As this is a personnel matter, no further information will be released at this time.”
Quick replacement found
As HMCS Ottawa is currently on deployment, the RCN has named Commander Landon Creasy, former commanding officer of HMCS Regina, to fill the role of Commanding Officer of HMCS Ottawa. He will continue in this role until the ship returns home to Esquimalt, BC, in late March.
According to the Navy, the ship’s company has been informed of the decision.
