Operation LUSTRE: Response of National Defence
and Canadian Forces to the floods in Manitoba

Operation LUSTRE is the Canadian Forces response to a request for federal assistance from the Province of Manitoba to assist people affected by the floods along the Assiniboine River in Manitoba.

In coordination with the Government of Canada and the Provincial Government of Manitoba, an Immediate Response Unit from Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Shilo, Manitoba, has been deployed to the affected areas along the Assiniboine River. Op LUSTRE, led by Canada Command and conducted through Joint Task Force West (JTFW) is delivering assistance by providing planning and coordination assistance; providing support to preserve essential infrastructure; reinforcing existing dykes; observing and monitoring sandbag dykes; providing essential logistical and material support; and providing assistance through the voluntary evacuation of civilians where flooding poses a threat to their lives. The CF is also delivering assets that include two domestic response companies of 100 CF Reserve personnel each, and helicopters. More troops are expected to join this flood relief and mitigation effort in the days to come.

Message from the Minister of National Defence

“As they are demonstrating in Quebec and in Manitoba, the Canadian Forces are always ready to assist Canadians in times of crisis. Our Government was quick to respond to the request for assistance from Premier Selinger and our men and women in uniform are proud to be part of this effort to protect life and property from the flooded Assiniboine River.”

- Peter MacKay

Operation LUSTRE News Room