Defence Minister Gordon O'Connor is determined to increase the presence of Canada's navy in the North, he told reporters in Iqaluit on Friday.

O'Connor, who was in the Nunavut capital as part of a northern tour, said his government intends to make good on an election promise to protect northern sovereignty.

During the election, the Conservatives promised three icebreakers and a deep sea port for the Arctic. 

"My idea was icebreakers, heavy icebreakers, and they may ultimately be what we acquire, but the navy staff is also looking at other possibilities," O'Connor said.

"What I want is, I want the navy in the North. I want the navy to operate in the North and, whatever the most effective way, I'm willing to go with it."

O'Connor says small vessels and amphibious vehicles are also being considered.