By Alex McCuaig

Operation Laser

Canadian Forces activate Operation Laser, pandemic response

Mar 17, 2020 | 1:58 PM

MEDICINE HAT – The Canadian Armed Forces has activated its worldwide pandemic response, Operation Laser, CHAT News has learned.

The operation involves four phases from preparedness to post-pandemic response.

Phase 3 –pandemic response – is currently activated, according to the Department of National Defence (DND), which will see the Canadian Forces’ response dependent on the virus’s impact and calls for assistance by civil authorities.

CHAT News has also learned the first deployment of British Forces training at CFB Suffield has been cancelled.

Directives on Phase 3 of Operation Laser have been issued by DND officials, covering an initial three-week period.

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The majority of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel will work from home, while core military functions will be maintained. Civilian employees will do the same. Only essential core activities will continue for the time being and only DND staff “who are physically required to conduct critical tasks should be on DND premises.”

International travel for CAF members based in Canada is prohibited during the initial period. There are no restrictions to leave in Canada.

Mass gatherings are also suspended for the time being, with the exception of “essential force generation activities and exercises.”

The Canadian Armed Forces is closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation around the globe in the regions and countries it operates in to ensure risk to its personnel is mitigated.