Canada's Naval History

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Birth Of the Navy

First World War

Between the Wars

Second World War

Early Cold War

Later Cold War
- - From RCN to Maritime Command
  - A Changing Fleet

Navy Today
- - The Gulf War
  - Continuing Commitments

The Later Cold War
A Changing Fleet

Canada's navy changed and shrank in the latter part of the Cold War, but continued to face threats and meet alliance obligations. Despite the addition of some newer vessels, by the late 1970s it faced "rust-out" due to the gradual deterioration of ships and equipment.

Artifact Record

Diving Knife

Divers at the Canadian Forces Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) in Colwood, British Columbia, used this knife for their work.

Marks one inch apart on the blade allow it to be used as a ruler, while a serrated edge (centre right) helps cut through materials like rope. This commercially-manufactured diving knife has also been modified by turning the point of the blade (bottom right) into a screwdriver tip. Established shortly after the Second World War, the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific)'s primary responsibility is mine countermeasures work, but it also carries out other underwater duties, including repair and salvage work.

Diving Knife
CWM 19820631-016