Military assault boats and hundreds of soldiers to invade Toronto waterfront

Don't freak out if you notice a sudden military presence in downtown Toronto in the coming days, as an "amphibious training exercise" is set to take place in the heart of the city next weekend.

A Toronto Army Reserves exercise planned along the city's waterfront will involve 300 Canadian Armed Forces members from across the 32 Canadian Brigade Group simulating a mass-casualty evacuation.

Conducted as part of Exercise Steadfast Response, the simulated crisis will take over an area stretching from near Exhibition Place to the Keating Channel.

As part of the exercise, the public may witness military assault boats on Toronto Harbour, travelling from HMCS York to the exercise site in the Port Lands, in conjunction with military land vehicles on local roads in the downtown area.

A Canadian Forces notice explains that "All measures are being taken to ensure minimum inconvenience in these areas during the exercise dates," and advises the public "to take extra caution when approaching military vehicles."

Similar past exercises have taken place in the abandoned Bay Lower subway station, away from public eyes, though this two-day operation will give onlookers a great opportunity to witness the action.

Those looking to watch the spectacle can stake out a spot at planned public observation area on the Cherry Street North Bridge, which Canadian Forces states "will provide the best vantage point and a rare opportunity for members of the public to witness the military's training up close."

The military exercise will take place along Toronto's waterfront on Oct. 25, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Oct. 26, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.