Irving Shipyard in Halifax officially began construction of the first of Canada’s 15 new River-class destroyers with a ceremony that brought together thousands of tradespeople and dignitaries Friday.

The keel-laying ceremony also recognized other milestones, such as the delivery and launch of the country’s final Arctic and offshore patrol ship.

“Fifteen years ago, the Government of Canada made a commitment to build ships in Canada, and here, we are finally at the culmination of the starting part of that journey,” said Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Royal Canadian Navy Commander.