The establishment of the Royal Canadian Navy marked a pivotal moment in Canada's military evolution, reacting to both domestic needs and international pressures. Canada had relied primarily on the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom for its maritime defense, but with the rise of nationalist sentiments and a desire for greater autonomy, the Canadian government recognized the necessity of an independent naval force. The Navy was officially created following a decision made by the Canadian Parliament and was formalized through the Naval Service Act. Initially, the navy was equipped with only a few ships, including the HMCS Niobe and HMCS Rainbow, which were transferred from British service. These ships formed the cornerstone of a budding naval tradition and infrastructure within Canada.

The foundational years of the Royal Canadian Navy were both challenging and essential for its growth. Manpower was another crucial challenge, prompting the Canadian government to promote naval careers and enlist citizens in support of the new institution. Early operations of the navy focused on training and establishing a presence, both domestically and within the broader context of the British Empire. Participating in international naval exercises and responding to incidents like the First World War would later expand the navy's role and capabilities significantly, transforming it into a respected maritime force on the global stage.

As the years progressed, the Royal Canadian Navy would undergo major transformations, growing to play a decisive role during the World Wars and the Cold War, fundamentally altering Canadian military policy. The establishment of the Royal Canadian Navy set a precedent for a more robust national defense strategy and contributed to Canada's emergence as a significant player in international maritime operations.