Project Resolve involves the conversion of a modern, European-built containership into a naval support ship. The concept of converting a containership into a naval fleet auxiliary ship is not a new one – it has been performed on several occasions over the past decades including by the Royal Navy and the United States Navy. Those ships have gone on to serve in global combat operations worldwide. CSS Asterix is fully compliant with all international regulations.
Asterix was converted at Federal Fleet Services’ sister-company, Chantier Davie Canada in Quebec. A pan-Canadian supplier network spanning six provinces was used to provide equipment and services for the program.
The ship was delivered on time and on budget to the Royal Canadian Navy with full services provision for the following 10 years. The government of Canada possesses an option to buy the ship at the end of the 10 years.
Replenishment At Sea for Liquids and Solids using NATO standard Standard Tensioned Replenishment Alongside Method
A double hull, fully compliant with international safety and environmental regulations
Two cranes allow containers to be loaded and unloaded
A container bay protects containers while in transit where they can be loaded and unloaded for replenishment operations
Two forms of propulsion ensure the vessel can keep pace within a task force as well as provide redundancy in case of an engine failure
A large helicopter deck capable of handling the largest of NATO helicopters, including the Chinook
Two aircraft hangars ensure the ship can provide maintenance support for task force air detachments
Accommodation with a large hospital to support the task force as well as extra dormitories for large-scale humanitarian relief operations