Canada is committing HMCS Regina to NATO’s “reassurance package” in Eastern Europe, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Wednesday.

In a statement, Harper said: “Russia’s illegal occupation of Ukraine and provocative military activity remains a serious concern to the international community.

“Canada remains committed to working with our NATO Allies to promote the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.”

HMCS Regina is currently deployed in the Arabian Sea.

Canada has already contributed six CF-18 fighter jets to NATO operations in response to the crisis in Ukraine. The planes will be stationed in Romania.

Wednesday’s announcement comes after Ottawa imposed new economic sanctions this week on nine Russians and two Russian banks.

In March, Russia slapped entry bans on 13 Canadian lawmakers and officials, and last week Russia expelled a Canadian diplomat from the country.