Canada’s Navy has been expanding its presence in the Pacific, as tensions with China rise, leaving vital trade routes in potential danger. At the same time as they recommit their efforts to the region, the military as a whole faces issues around funding and recruitment, raising questions about its future direction.

The Globe’s Asia correspondent James Griffiths spent a week aboard The HMCS Vancouver as it engaged in war games in the West Pacific, to learn more about Canada’s evolving naval strategy.

James Griffiths spent seven days onboard the HMCS Vancouver in August and September 2024, during which he was subject to a Media Embedding and Ground Rules Agreement with the Canadian Navy. The Navy did not review this episode.

Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email us at thedecibel@globeandmail.com

Episode 58: Boy Meets #SCANDOVAL