International Military Divers Conduct Training Exercises Near Metchosin

Military divers from Canada, the United Kingdom, Latvia, Germany, and the Netherlands are currently engaged in Exercise Roguish Buoy near Metchosin, British Columbia. This annual training, running from January 16 to February 12, 2026, focuses on enhancing combat diving skills, including underwater demolition and helocasting techniques.

The exercise involves both daytime and nighttime operations, with nighttime training scheduled for January 26, 28, 31, and February 2 and 4, between 7:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m., in areas such as Albert Head, Mary Hill, Rocky Point, Whirl Bay, and Bentinck Island. Residents may observe flashing lights and hear loud noises due to the use of pyrotechnics during these sessions.

To ensure public safety, access to shorelines near Whirl Bay and Bentinck Island will be restricted on January 26, 28, 31, and February 2. The Canadian Armed Forces have stated that the exercise will be conducted in compliance with safety and environmental protection regulations.

Exercise Roguish Buoy serves as the Canadian Army's primary collective training event for dive teams, aiming to maintain high standards of diver certification necessary to support operations.