Equipment Update

CF-18 Phase II Modernization

The second phase of the CF-18 Modernization Project has begun. The milestone kicked off during a ceremony that saw Boeing sign a contract in February with the Department of National Defence for $117 million. The $2.1 billion CF-18 modernization program will ensure that the CF-18s continue to provide security to Canadians and defend Canada, both at home and abroad, well into the future.

The fighter jets will be equipped with a secure data and communications link that allows CF-18 crews to stay in constant contact with other jets, ground stations, and airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) to maintain awareness in their constantly evolving environment. New state-of-the-art colour display panels will provide pilots with improved access to flight data and communications. Their helmets will feature new visors that display readings from the instrument panel, so that pilots can maintain visual contact with a target and not look down. The aircraft will also be outfitted with a new missile countermeasures chaff/flare dispenser.

Medium-Lift Helicopters

The federal budget announced funding for the Air Force to acquire new Medium-Lift Helicopters. The utility of Medium-Lift Helicopters became evident during the Canadian Forces experiences in Afghanistan and is a capability the CF will need in the future. It is too early to indicate what helicopter will be selected for this role, the number of helicopters and when they will be acquired. In due course, a Statement of Operational Requirements (SOR) will be prepared that will clearly specify the capabilities of the new Medium-Lift Helicopter and the conditions in which it will operate.

Utility aircraft for the North

The federal budget also announced funding for new utility aircraft for operations in the North. The Government of Canada has placed increased emphasis on Canada’s northern regions, and the decision to acquire new utility aircraft to operate in this environment will enable the Air Force to replace the Twin Otters and maintain the ability to continue to operate in the North.

Has with the Medium-Lift Helicopters, it is too early to indicate what aircraft will be selected for this role and when they will be acquired. In due course, a (SOR) will be prepared that will clearly specify the capabilities required of the utility aircraft and the conditions under which it will be required to operate.