Today Federal Ministers offered an update on the AOPS Project.
The first 2 of 7 phases of the 288 million definition contract were completed on time and on budget. This contract was announced in March 2013.

an additional 2 phases of the 7 phases have now authorized, valued at 53 million. (presumably phases 3 and 4) Phases 3 and 4 Include 

Engineering Design Phase 2 – This task will include the system engineering activities, integrated logistical support analysis and supplier engagement activities that are necessary to demonstrate that the Arctic/Offshore patrol ship design is a complete and integrated solution that meets all the contract design specification requirements with acceptable risk and within the cost and schedule constraints. 

Engineering Design Phase 3 – This task will include the system engineering activities, integrated logistic support analysis and supplier engagement activities that are necessary to demonstrate that the Arctic/Offshore patrol ship design is a complete and integrated solution that meets all of the contract design specification requirements and is ready for the start of vessel construction.

No Number of vessels has been set yet  – So it still stands at the vague 6-8