A new and improved HMCS Fredericton

Modernization of Canada's 12 Halifax-class frigates is finally underway. And some would say none too soon.

It's been close to 20 years since the ships, referred to by the military as the "backbone of the navy," first hit the seas.

That's a lot of pounding and use in what is often an unforgiving environment - an environment known to chew up and spit out those who use and abuse it.

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