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The RCMP have not charged the respected naval officer, and questions have since emerged about how solid any case against Norman might be.

Upon its completion, Project Resolve will provide the Royal Canadian Navy with the capability to independently refuel and resupply its warships at sea, for the first time in many years. Since the retirement of its own aging resupply vessels, Canada has at various times leased the services of Chilean and Spanish navy supply ships.

The project’s $670-million price tag includes the conversion of Asterix, the lease of its services to the navy for five years, maintenance and the salaries of a civilian crew to operate the vessel.

Navy crews will operate the resupply systems on board the vessel and the federal government has the option to buy the vessel at the end of the lease.

Asterix will be ready to provide its services to the navy beginning in November. It is expected to accompany Canadian warships on a major Pacific Ocean exercise next year.

We're extraordinarily proud that we're delivering the next naval support ship for Canada. Spencer Fraser, chief executive officer of Federal Fleet Services

“We’re extraordinarily proud that we’re delivering the next naval support ship for Canada,” Spencer Fraser, chief executive officer of Federal Fleet Services, said Wednesday. “It’s a cost-effective initiative. We’re delivering a capability at a quarter of the price.”

Asterix will be able to carry two Cyclone helicopters and also has medical facilities on board. In addition, it has space for light armoured vehicles and other equipment.

Halt the project was the focus of a Liberal cabinet meeting in November 2015 that was preceded by a letter to ministers from Davie’s rival, Irving Shipbuilding, which pointed out that firm had a similar plan for a supply ship.