Fabricated in BC: Local supplier gears up to support the Canadian Coast Guard’s Arctic operations with all-Canadian content on Canada’s heavy Polar Icebreaker.
August 7, 2025 — North Vancouver, B.C. — Seaspan Shipyards (Seaspan) has signed a Master Service Agreement (MSA) with BC-based Tri-Metal Fabricators (TMF) to supply more than 80,000 fabricated parts for Canada’s new heavy polar icebreaker.
The agreement includes an initial confirmed demand for more than 26,000 “build-to-print” parts over two years, which are precision-fabricated components that will support outfitting and structural work on the heavy polar icebreaker, the most powerful ship ever constructed for the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG).
TMF has committed to delivering the work under the MSA with 100 per cent Canadian Content Value through its local workforce and materials, further advancing the goals of the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) to strengthen Canada’s marine and defense industrial base. To support the MSA with Seaspan, TMF anticipates hiring a third shift to expand operations at its Surrey facility, creating 25 additional local, union jobs and building long-term capacity. The MSA will be worth up to $9 million, with an option to extend after two years.
The MSA will also strengthen British Columbia’s marine supply chain ecosystem. TMF is sourcing class-certified steel materials from Stigterstaal Canada, reinforcing collaboration between local suppliers and creating additional industrial synergies under the NSS.
Seaspan began full-rate construction of the heavy polar icebreaker in April 2025. Once delivered, it will be the most capable vessel in the Canadian Coast Guard fleet, capable of breaking 2.5 metres of ice continuously. The ship will operate year-round in the Arctic, supporting search and rescue, scientific research, and asserting Canadian sovereignty. It is the seventh ship Seaspan is delivering under the NSS.
With more than 800 Canadian suppliers and $3.1 billion in contracts issued under the NSS to date, Seaspan continues to invest in building a strong and resilient domestic marine industry with a pan-Canadian approach.
Quotes
“This MSA with Tri-Metal Fabricators is a strong example of how the National Shipbuilding Strategy is driving local investment, industrial growth, and long-term employment opportunities here in British Columbia. We’re proud to partner with a company that shares our commitment to supporting Canada’s defense industrial base with high Canadian Content and quality delivery.”
— Kate Morton, Vice President, Supply Chain Management, Seaspan Shipyards
“The MSA represents not just a contract, but a milestone. It will help solidify the future of Tri-Metal Fabricators and enable us to invest in the next generation—ensuring continued innovation, reliability, and excellence in support of Canada’s shipbuilding efforts.”
— Joe Toso, President, Tri-Metal Fabricators
About Seaspan Shipyards
Seaspan is a leader in Canada’s ship design, engineering, building and ship repair industry. With modern facilities and a dedicated workforce of about 4,300 people in North Vancouver and Victoria, the company is a trusted and strategic partner on a range of complex projects for both government and the private sector.
About Tri-Metal Fabricators
Founded in 1963, Surrey, BC’s Tri-Metal Fabricators is one of Canada’s leading industrial steel fabrication companies, with over 60 years of experience serving the marine, industrial, and shipbuilding sectors. Certified to CWB 47.1 and 47.2 standards, and with established relationships with Lloyd’s Register and DNV, Tri-Metal is a trusted supplier known for quality, precision, and reliability. A long-standing partner to Seaspan Shipyards and contributor to the National Shipbuilding Strategy, the company is recognized for its dependable service, on-time delivery, and commitment to continuous improvement.
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