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'''Canadian Forces Air Command''' ('''AIRCOM''') is the [[air force]] branch of the [[Canadian Armed Forces]]. AIRCOM is the descendant of the [[Royal Canadian Air Force|Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)]], which was [[Canada]]'s air force from its foundation in [[1924]] until [[February 1]], [[1968]]. Prior to 1924, the [[Royal Air Force]] provided air defence for [[Canada]]. After 1968, the RCAF was merged with the Army and the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] to form the Canadian Armed Forces.
'''Canadian Forces Air Command''' ('''AIRCOM''') is the [[air force]] branch of the [[Canadian Armed Forces]]. AIRCOM is the descendant of the [[Royal Canadian Air Force|Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)]], which was [[Canada]]'s air force from its foundation in [[1924]] until [[February 1]], [[1968]]. Prior to 1924, the [[Royal Air Force]] provided air defence for [[Canada]]. After 1968, the RCAF was merged with the Army and the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] to form the Canadian Armed Forces.



==Mission==
==Mission==
Line 11: Line 10:
==History==
==History==
''For history before 1968, see [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]''
''For history before 1968, see [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]''

[[Image:CF-18A Hornets.jpg|right|thumb|300px|CF-18A Hornets]]
[[Image:RCAF-Roundel.svg|thumb|left|100px|The CFAC Roundel is based on that of the British [[Royal Air Force]], with the central circle replaced by a maple leaf]]
[[Image:RCAF-Roundel.svg|thumb|left|100px|The CFAC Roundel is based on that of the British [[Royal Air Force]], with the central circle replaced by a maple leaf]]

Following unification on [[February 1]], [[1968]], aircraft and bases of the RCAF and the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] (the Royal Canadian Naval Aviation Service), were scattered across several different commands of the newly unified forces. In a [[1975]] Canadian Forces reorganization, AIRCOM was created to handle all aviation requirements of Canada's military.
Following unification on [[February 1]], [[1968]], aircraft and bases of the RCAF and the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] (the Royal Canadian Naval Aviation Service), were scattered across several different commands of the newly unified forces. In a [[1975]] Canadian Forces reorganization, AIRCOM was created to handle all aviation requirements of Canada's military.


Line 18: Line 18:


AIRCOM also underwent significant changes in the late [[1970s]] when the ''CP-107 Argus'' and ''CP-121 Tracker'' were replaced with the ''CP-140 Aurora''/''CP-142 Arcturus'' maritime patrol aircraft. The shift of east coast maritime patrol aircraft at the time of the ''Argus'' retirement to [[CFB Greenwood]] eventually saw [[CFB Summerside]] closed in the late [[1980s]].
AIRCOM also underwent significant changes in the late [[1970s]] when the ''CP-107 Argus'' and ''CP-121 Tracker'' were replaced with the ''CP-140 Aurora''/''CP-142 Arcturus'' maritime patrol aircraft. The shift of east coast maritime patrol aircraft at the time of the ''Argus'' retirement to [[CFB Greenwood]] eventually saw [[CFB Summerside]] closed in the late [[1980s]].

After unification, AIRCOM personnel wore a dark-green uniform with only cap and collar badges (a modified version of the former RCAF crest) as distinguishing marks. In the mid-1980s, AIRCOM returned to blue-grey uniforms broadly similar to those of the former to the RCAF, though the army-derived ranks adopted upon unification were retained.


In the early [[1990s]], AIRCOM transport and utility helicopters in support of [[Canadian Forces Land Force Command|army]] operations were cutback and consolidated with the purchase of the ''CH-146 Griffon'', replacing the ''CH-135 Twin Huey'', ''CH-136 Kiowa'', and ''CH-147 Chinook''. The army considers this a loss of capability still, especially with the loss of the heavy lift capability of the Chinook.
In the early [[1990s]], AIRCOM transport and utility helicopters in support of [[Canadian Forces Land Force Command|army]] operations were cutback and consolidated with the purchase of the ''CH-146 Griffon'', replacing the ''CH-135 Twin Huey'', ''CH-136 Kiowa'', and ''CH-147 Chinook''. The army considers this a loss of capability still, especially with the loss of the heavy lift capability of the Chinook.
Line 25: Line 27:
Ship-borne anti-submarine helicopter squadrons are currently operating the 40-year old ''CH-124 Sea King'' with the new [[Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone]] beginning in [[2008]]. The ''Cyclone'' is the proposed maritime version of the [[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk]].
Ship-borne anti-submarine helicopter squadrons are currently operating the 40-year old ''CH-124 Sea King'' with the new [[Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone]] beginning in [[2008]]. The ''Cyclone'' is the proposed maritime version of the [[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk]].


==Current strength==
==AIRCOM Aircraft==
===Strike, Attack and Offensive Support Aircraft===
[[Image:Canadian Armed Forces Air Command badge.png|right|thumb|150px|Badge of Canadian Forces Air Command]]
Principal aircraft include:
* 115 McDonnell-Douglas '''[[CF-18 Hornet]]''' tactical fighter bombers
* 115 McDonnell-Douglas '''[[CF-18 Hornet]]''' tactical fighter bombers

* 18 Lockheed '''[[CP-140 Aurora]]''' long-range patrol aircraft
===Maritime Patrol/Reconnaissance Aircraft===
* 3 Lockheed CP-140A '''Arcturus''' long-range patrol aircraft
* 18 Lockheed '''[[CP-140 Aurora]]''' long-range patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft
* 27 Sikorsky '''[[H-3 Sea King|CH-124 Sea King]]''' maritime helicopters
* 3 Lockheed '''[[CP-140A Arcturus]]''' long-range patrol aircraft
* 15 AgustaWestland '''[[AgustaWestland EH101|CH-149 Cormorant]]''' search and rescue helicopters
* 6 SAGEM '''[[SAGEM Sperwer|CU-161 Sperwer]]''' Drone/UAV

===Helicopters===
* 86 Bell '''[[CH-146 Griffon]]''' tactical transport helicopters
* 86 Bell '''[[CH-146 Griffon]]''' tactical transport helicopters
* 27 Sikorsky '''[[H-3 Sea King|CH-124 Sea King]]''' maritime anti-submarine warfare helicopters
* 32 Lockheed '''[[C-130 Hercules]]''' combat transports
* 15 AgustaWestland '''[[AgustaWestland EH101|CH-149 Cormorant]]''' search and rescue helicopters
* 5 Airbus CC-150 '''[[Airbus A310|Polaris]]''' long range transports (2 of these have air-air refuelling capability)
* 14 Bell '''[[Bell 206|CH-139 Jet Ranger]]''' light helicopters
* 6 de Havilland Canada CC-115 [[De Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo|'''Buffalo''']] short range transports

* 6 Canadair CC-144 [[Bombardier Challenger 600|'''Challenger''']] jet transports (4 VIP/2 utility)
===Transport and Air-to-Air Refuelling Aircraft===
* 4 de Havilland Canada CC-138 '''[[De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|Twin Otter]]''' short range transports
* 32 Lockheed '''[[C-130 Hercules|CC-130 Hercules]]''' combat transports
* 15 [[Canadair CT-114 Tutor]] jet trainers
* 5 Airbus '''[[CC-150 Polaris]]''' long range transports (2 have air-air refuelling capability)
* 24 Raytheon CT-156 '''Harvard II''' trainers (leased)
* 6 de Havilland Canada '''[[De Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo|CC-115 Buffalo]]''' short range transports
* 21 BAE CT-155 '''[[Hawker-Siddeley Hawk|Hawk]]''' jet trainers (leased)
* 6 Canadair '''[[Bombardier Challenger 600|CC-144 Challenger]]''' jet transports (4 VIP/2 utility)
* 4 de Havilland Canada CT-142 [[De Havilland Canada Dash 8|'''Dash 8''']] navigation trainers
* 4 de Havilland Canada '''[[De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|CC-138 Twin Otter]]''' short range transports
* 6 SAGEM CU-161 [[SAGEM Sperwer|'''Sperwer''']] Drone/UAV

===Training Aircraft===
* 24 Raytheon '''[[CT-156 Harvard II]]''' trainers
* 21 BAE '''[[Hawker-Siddeley Hawk|CT-155 Hawk]]''' jet trainers
* 15 Canadair '''[[Canadair CT-114 Tutor|CT-114 Tutor]]''' jet trainers
* 4 de Havilland Canada '''[[De Havilland Canada Dash 8|CT-142 Dash 8]]''' navigation trainers


Aircraft on order include:
===Aircraft on order===


* 28 Sikorsky '''[[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk|CH-148 Cyclone]]''' (''to be delivered in [[2008]])''
* 28 Sikorsky '''[[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk|CH-148 Cyclone]]''' (''to be delivered in [[2008]])''


==Wings==
==Fighter and Patrol Aircraft==
There are 13 Air Force Wings across Canada. Wings represent the grouping of various squadrons, both operational and support, under a single tactical commander reporting to the operational commander. Ten Wings also include a Canadian Forces Base along with other operational and support units.
<gallery>
Image:McDonnell-Douglas CF-18A Hornet.jpg|CF-18A Hornet
Image:McDonnell CF-101B Voodoo.jpg|CF-101 Voodoo
Image:Canada CP-140 Aurora.jpg|CP-140 Aurora
</gallery>


*'''[[CFB Kingston|1 Wing Kingston]]'''
==Helicopters==
:The home of the [[CH-146 Griffon]] helicopter, 1 Wing provides airlift support of troops and equipment anywhere in the world. Its six tactical helicopter and training squadrons are spread out all across Canada.
<gallery>
Image:Canada Cormorant.jpg|CH-149 Cormorant
Image:CH-146 Griffon.jpg|CH-146 Griffon
Image:Canada Sea King.jpg|CH-124 Sea King
Image:Sikorsky H 92.jpg|CH-148 Cyclone
</gallery>


*'''[[CFB Bagotville|3 Wing Bagotville]]'''
==Transport Aircraft==
:Located in Quebec's [[Saguenay]] region, 3 Wing provides general purpose, multi-role, combat capable forces in support of domestic and international roles of Canada's Air Force. It also provides search and rescue missions.
<gallery>
Image:Canada CC-130 Hercules.jpg|CC-130 Hercules
Image:Airbus CC-150 Polaris.jpg|CC-150 Polaris
Image:Canadair CC-144 Challenger.jpg|CC-144 Challenger
</gallery>


*'''[[CFB Cold Lake|4 Wing Cold Lake]]'''
==Search and Rescue==
:The busiest fighter base in Canada, 4 Wing provides general purpose, multi-role, combat capable forces in support of domestic and international roles of Canada's Air Force. Home of fighter pilot training for the Canadian Forces, 4 Wing attracts Top Gun crews from all over the world to its annual air combat exercise, Maple Flag.
<gallery>
Image:Canada CH-113 Labrador.jpg|CH-113 Labrador
Image:Bell CH-146 Griffon.jpg|CH-146 Griffon
Image:Canada CC-115 Buffalo.jpg|CC-115 Buffalo
Image:Canada DHC-6-300 Twin Otter.jpg|CC-138 Twin Otter
</gallery>


*'''[[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]]'''
==Trainer Aircraft==
:The site of [[NATO]] tactical low-level flying training in Canada, 5 Wing is home to permanent detachments from the UK's [[Royal Air Force]], the German [[Luftwaffe]], the [[Royal Netherlands Air Force]] and the Italian [[Aeronautica Militare]]. 5 Wing also serves as a [[NORAD]] [[CF-18 Hornet]] deployed operating base and airfield supporting a mix of aviation activities, military and civilian, in eastern Canada.
<gallery>
Image:British Aerospace Hawk CT-155.jpg|CT-155 Hawk
Image:Canadair CT-114 Tutor.jpg|CT-114 Tutor
Image:CT-156 Harvard II.jpg|CT-156 Harvard
Image:Canada airforce 1.jpg|CT-133 Silver Stars
</gallery>


*'''[[CFB Trenton|8 Wing Trenton]]'''
==Bases==
:The heart of Canada's air mobility forces, from delivering supplies to the high Arctic ([[CFS Alert]]) to airlifting troops and equipment worldwide. It is also responsible for search and rescue in central Canada and home to the Canadian Parachute Centre.
[[Image:Goose bay aerial.jpg|right|250px|thumb|[[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]], Labrador]]
[[Image:CFB Shearwater aerial.jpg|right|250px|thumb|[[12 Wing Shearwater]], Nova Scotia]]
[[Image:CFB Cold Lake.jpg|right|thumb|250px|[[CFB Cold Lake|4 Wing Cold Lake]], Alberta]]


*'''[[Gander International Airport|9 Wing Gander]]'''
:The home of [[103 Search and Rescue Squadron CFAC|103 Search and Rescue (SAR) Squadron]] providing full-time SAR services to eastern Canada. SAR crews at 9 Wing Gander fly the [[AgustaWestland EH101|CH-149 Cormorant]] helicopter and are responsible for a massive area, covering the lower [[Arctic]], the [[Maritimes]], [[Labrador]] and [[Newfoundland]] and all offshore waters in the region.

*'''[[CFB Shearwater|12 Wing Shearwater]]'''
:The centre of naval aviation in Canada, 12 Wing is home of the [[CH-124 Sea King]] helicopter, and supports the [[Canadian Forces Maritime Command|Canadian Navy]] with up to nine helicopter air detachments for international and domestic operations.

*'''[[CFB Greenwood|14 Wing Greenwood]]'''
:Located in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley, 14 Wing's [[CP-140 Aurora]] crews conduct sovereignty and surveillance missions over the Atlantic Ocean routinely, while search and rescue capabilities are maintained 365 days of the year.

*'''[[CFB Moose Jaw|15 Wing Moose Jaw]]'''
:The site of the NATO Flying Training Program in Canada, 15 Wing is also home to the [[Snowbirds]], the Air Forces' aerobatic team.

*'''[[CFB Borden|16 Wing Borden]]'''
:The largest training Wing in the Canadian Forces, 16 Wing's schools offer air force technical training and professional development and is the "Birthplace of the Royal Canadian Air Force".

*'''[[CFB Winnipeg|17 Wing Winnipeg]]'''
:Comprised of three squadrons and six schools, 17 Wing also provides support to the Central Flying School.

*'''[[CFB Comox|19 Wing Comox]]'''
:Located on [[Vancouver Island]], its Aurora and Cormorant crews are responsible for surveillance and search and rescue over the Pacific Ocean and for training fighter pilots in tactical procedures.

*'''[[CFB North Bay|22 Wing North Bay]]'''
:Represents one of Canada's major contributions to the North American Aerospace Defence (NORAD) agreement. From its underground complex at the Sector Air Operations Centre, technicians watch over Canada's airspace 24 hours a day, using state-of-the-art sensors, computer and communications equipment.

==Squadrons==
The following squadrons are currently active with the Canadian Forces and their assigned Wing.

* [[400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[402 Squadron Navigation School Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
* [[403 Squadron Helicopter Operational Training Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[404 Squadron Maritime Patrol and Training Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
* [[405 Squadron Maritime Patrol Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
* [[No. 406 Squadron RCAF|406 Squadron Maritime Operational Training Squadron]] - 12 Wing Shearwater
* [[407 Squadron Maritime Patrol Squadron]] - 19 Wing Comox
* [[408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron|408 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[410 Squadron Tactical Fighter Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[412 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[413 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
* [[416 Squadron Tactical Fighter Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[No. 417 Squadron RCAF|417 Squadron Combat Support Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[No. 419 Squadron RCAF|419 Squadron Tactical Fighter Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[423 Squadron Maritime Helicopter Squadron]] - 12 Wing Shearwater
* [[424 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[425 Squadron Tactical Fighter Squadron]] - 3 Wing Bagotville
* [[426 Squadron Transport Training Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[427 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[430 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[Snowbirds|431 Squadron Air Demonstration Squadron]] - 15 Wing Moose Jaw
* [[435 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
* [[436 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[No. 437 Squadron RCAF|437 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[No. 438 Squadron RCAF|438 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[439 Squadron Combat Support Squadron]] - 3 Wing Bagotville
* [[440 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
* [[441 Tactical Fighter Squadron CF|441 Squadron Tactical Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[No. 442 Squadron RCAF|442 Squadron Transport and Resuce Squadron]] - 19 Wing Comox
* [[443 Squadron Maritime Helicopter Squadron]] - 12 Wing Shearwater
* [[444 Squadron Combat Support Squadron]] - 5 Wing Goose Bay

As part of a reorganization in 2005, three squadrons (415,433, and 429) were disbanded. 415 merged with 405 Maritime Patrol Squadron, 429 merged with 436 Transport Squadron and 433 merged with 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron.

==Aircraft deployments==
Maritime patrol aircraft are based at:
Maritime patrol aircraft are based at:
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]] on the east coast
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]] on the east coast
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* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
* [[3 Wing Bagotville]]
* [[3 Wing Bagotville]]
with major low-level flying and bombing ranges for interceptor/tactical aircraft supported at [[4 Wing Cold Lake]] and [[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]].
:with major low-level flying and bombing ranges for interceptor/tactical aircraft supported at [[4 Wing Cold Lake]] and [[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]].


Maritime helicopters are based at:
Maritime helicopters are based at:
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Civilians: 2,500
Civilians: 2,500


==External link==
==External links==
*[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/index_e.asp Official web site]
*[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/index_e.asp Official web site]
*[http://www.airforce.forces.ca/acband/index_e.asp Official Website of The Air Command Band]


[[Category:Canadian Forces Air Command| ]]
[[Category:Canadian Forces Air Command| ]]
{{Canadian Armed Forces}}


[[de:Canadian Forces Air Command]]
[[de:Canadian Forces Air Command]]

{{Canadian Armed Forces}}
{{Template:Military aircraft of Canada}}

Revision as of 19:35, 13 May 2006

Canadian Forces Air Command (AIRCOM) is the air force branch of the Canadian Armed Forces. AIRCOM is the descendant of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), which was Canada's air force from its foundation in 1924 until February 1, 1968. Prior to 1924, the Royal Air Force provided air defence for Canada. After 1968, the RCAF was merged with the Army and the Royal Canadian Navy to form the Canadian Armed Forces.

Mission

AIRCOM is responsible for all aircraft operations in the Canadian Forces, enforcing Canada's airspace and provides aircraft for supporting the missions of Maritime Command and Land Force Command. AIRCOM is a partner with the United States Air Force in protecting continental airspace under the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD). AIRCOM also provides all primary air resources to the National Search and Rescue Program.

History

For history before 1968, see Royal Canadian Air Force

The CFAC Roundel is based on that of the British Royal Air Force, with the central circle replaced by a maple leaf

Following unification on February 1, 1968, aircraft and bases of the RCAF and the Royal Canadian Navy (the Royal Canadian Naval Aviation Service), were scattered across several different commands of the newly unified forces. In a 1975 Canadian Forces reorganization, AIRCOM was created to handle all aviation requirements of Canada's military.

Duplication saw several base closings through the 1970s-1990s, largely as aircraft changes took place. The acquisition of the CF-188A/B Hornet tactical fighter bomber saw CF-104 Starfighter and CF-101 Voodoo fighter aircraft retired in the early-mid 1980s, along with a corresponding downturn in several bases which had been exclusively dedicated to these aircraft. The closures of CFB Chatham and CFB Baden Soellingen along with various bombing ranges and the retirement of the CF-116 fighter aircraft and Boeing 707 transport/refuelling aircraft saw AIRCOM retract to its present base and force structure.

AIRCOM also underwent significant changes in the late 1970s when the CP-107 Argus and CP-121 Tracker were replaced with the CP-140 Aurora/CP-142 Arcturus maritime patrol aircraft. The shift of east coast maritime patrol aircraft at the time of the Argus retirement to CFB Greenwood eventually saw CFB Summerside closed in the late 1980s.

After unification, AIRCOM personnel wore a dark-green uniform with only cap and collar badges (a modified version of the former RCAF crest) as distinguishing marks. In the mid-1980s, AIRCOM returned to blue-grey uniforms broadly similar to those of the former to the RCAF, though the army-derived ranks adopted upon unification were retained.

In the early 1990s, AIRCOM transport and utility helicopters in support of army operations were cutback and consolidated with the purchase of the CH-146 Griffon, replacing the CH-135 Twin Huey, CH-136 Kiowa, and CH-147 Chinook. The army considers this a loss of capability still, especially with the loss of the heavy lift capability of the Chinook.

Search and rescue squadrons have also seen new aircraft when the CH-149 Cormorant replaced the CH-113 Labrador beginning in 2002. The CC-115 Buffalo short takeoff and landing fixed wing aircraft are also being replaced in the 2000s with a dedicated STOL search and rescue aircraft.

Ship-borne anti-submarine helicopter squadrons are currently operating the 40-year old CH-124 Sea King with the new Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone beginning in 2008. The Cyclone is the proposed maritime version of the Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk.

AIRCOM Aircraft

Strike, Attack and Offensive Support Aircraft

Maritime Patrol/Reconnaissance Aircraft

Helicopters

Transport and Air-to-Air Refuelling Aircraft

Training Aircraft

Aircraft on order

Wings

There are 13 Air Force Wings across Canada. Wings represent the grouping of various squadrons, both operational and support, under a single tactical commander reporting to the operational commander. Ten Wings also include a Canadian Forces Base along with other operational and support units.

The home of the CH-146 Griffon helicopter, 1 Wing provides airlift support of troops and equipment anywhere in the world. Its six tactical helicopter and training squadrons are spread out all across Canada.
Located in Quebec's Saguenay region, 3 Wing provides general purpose, multi-role, combat capable forces in support of domestic and international roles of Canada's Air Force. It also provides search and rescue missions.
The busiest fighter base in Canada, 4 Wing provides general purpose, multi-role, combat capable forces in support of domestic and international roles of Canada's Air Force. Home of fighter pilot training for the Canadian Forces, 4 Wing attracts Top Gun crews from all over the world to its annual air combat exercise, Maple Flag.
The site of NATO tactical low-level flying training in Canada, 5 Wing is home to permanent detachments from the UK's Royal Air Force, the German Luftwaffe, the Royal Netherlands Air Force and the Italian Aeronautica Militare. 5 Wing also serves as a NORAD CF-18 Hornet deployed operating base and airfield supporting a mix of aviation activities, military and civilian, in eastern Canada.
The heart of Canada's air mobility forces, from delivering supplies to the high Arctic (CFS Alert) to airlifting troops and equipment worldwide. It is also responsible for search and rescue in central Canada and home to the Canadian Parachute Centre.
The home of 103 Search and Rescue (SAR) Squadron providing full-time SAR services to eastern Canada. SAR crews at 9 Wing Gander fly the CH-149 Cormorant helicopter and are responsible for a massive area, covering the lower Arctic, the Maritimes, Labrador and Newfoundland and all offshore waters in the region.
The centre of naval aviation in Canada, 12 Wing is home of the CH-124 Sea King helicopter, and supports the Canadian Navy with up to nine helicopter air detachments for international and domestic operations.
Located in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley, 14 Wing's CP-140 Aurora crews conduct sovereignty and surveillance missions over the Atlantic Ocean routinely, while search and rescue capabilities are maintained 365 days of the year.
The site of the NATO Flying Training Program in Canada, 15 Wing is also home to the Snowbirds, the Air Forces' aerobatic team.
The largest training Wing in the Canadian Forces, 16 Wing's schools offer air force technical training and professional development and is the "Birthplace of the Royal Canadian Air Force".
Comprised of three squadrons and six schools, 17 Wing also provides support to the Central Flying School.
Located on Vancouver Island, its Aurora and Cormorant crews are responsible for surveillance and search and rescue over the Pacific Ocean and for training fighter pilots in tactical procedures.
Represents one of Canada's major contributions to the North American Aerospace Defence (NORAD) agreement. From its underground complex at the Sector Air Operations Centre, technicians watch over Canada's airspace 24 hours a day, using state-of-the-art sensors, computer and communications equipment.

Squadrons

The following squadrons are currently active with the Canadian Forces and their assigned Wing.

As part of a reorganization in 2005, three squadrons (415,433, and 429) were disbanded. 415 merged with 405 Maritime Patrol Squadron, 429 merged with 436 Transport Squadron and 433 merged with 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron.

Aircraft deployments

Maritime patrol aircraft are based at:

SAR squadrons are based at:

Transport and utility helicopters are based at:

Transport and VIP aircraft are based at:

Interceptor/tactical aircraft are based at:

with major low-level flying and bombing ranges for interceptor/tactical aircraft supported at 4 Wing Cold Lake and 5 Wing Goose Bay.

Maritime helicopters are based at:

Command and Control

The Commander of Air Command and the Chief of the Air Staff, Lieutenant-General Lucas, located at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, commands and provides strategic direction for the Air Force.

The Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division and Canadian NORAD Region, MGen J.J.C. (Charlie) Bouchard, OMM, CD, is based in Winnipeg. He is responsible for the operational command and control of Air Force activities throughout Canada and world-wide.

Personnel

Regular Force personnel: 14,500
Reserve Force: 2,600
Civilians: 2,500

This list identifies the military aircraft which are currently being operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force. List of aircraft of Canada's air forces includes all aircraft operated by the RCAF and its predecessors, current and past while List of aircraft of the Royal Canadian Navy covers all RCN aircraft.

Current aircraft

Source: FlightGlobal.[1]

Type Origin Class Role Introduced In service Total Notes
AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant Italy/UK Helicopter Search and Rescue (SAR) 2000 13 15 An order for 35 AgustaWestland AW101 to serve in the anti-submarine role and replace the Sikorsky CH-124 Sea King and 15 AgustaWestland AW101 to serve in the search and rescue role and replace the Boeing Vertol CH-113 Labrador was cancelled in 1993. Nine VH-71 Kestrels were bought from the US in 2011 to be used for spare parts.[2] Three additional aircraft to be acquired, existing aircraft to undergo a mid-life upgrade[3] Two helicopters have crashed and were written off.[4][5]
Airbus CC-150 & CC-150T Polaris France Jet Transport/tanker 1992 5 5 8 Wing Trenton - 2 transport; 2 tanker; 1 VIP. To be replaced by Airbus A330 MRTT[6]
Airbus CC-295 Kingfisher Spain Propeller Search and rescue aircraft 2019 0 16 Greenwood, Nova Scotia; Trenton, Ontario; Winnipeg, Manitoba and Comox, British Columbia (418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron). The aircraft will be primarily operated at CFB Comox, where Airbus is building an RCAF Search & Rescue Training Facility for the CC-295. As of 2022, all 16 aircraft were expected to be delivered by the end of the year.[7] However, initial operating capability is delayed until 2025/26.[8]
Airbus CC-330 Husky France Jet Transport/tanker 2023 0 9 Replacing the Airbus CC-150 Polaris. The first CC-330 will enter service in fall 2023 for VIP transport.
BAE CT-155 Hawk UK Jet Trainer 2000 16 22 22 delivered to 419 sqn and 2 CFFTS[9]
Bell CH-139 Jet Ranger US Helicopter Trainer 1982 13[10] 13 On contract from KF Defence Programs as trainers.
Bell CH-146 Griffon Canada Helicopter Transport/SAR 1995 85[11] 100 15 SAR and 85 tactical helicopters. Eight armed in 2009 to escort CH-147 Chinooks in Afghanistan. 9 B412CF Outlaw on contract from KF Defence Programs as trainers
Boeing CC-177 Globemaster US Jet Transport 2007 5 5 At 8 Wing Trenton[12][13] Replaced contracted aircraft or assistance from allies.
Boeing CH-147F Chinook US Helicopter Transport 2013 14 15 Previous D-model variants no longer in service.[14][15][16][17][18][19] One Chinook lost in crash on training mission in 2023.[20]
Bombardier CC-144 Challenger Canada Jet Transport 1982/2002/2020 4 4 412(T) Sqn under 8 Wing Trenton, stationed at Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport. VIP and medevac transport.
Canadair CT-114 Tutor Canada Jet Air demonstration, pilot proficiency flying 1962 26[21] 26 24 used by "The Snowbirds"

Five used by Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment (AETE), CFB Cold Lake for test support and pilot proficiency.[22][23]

de Havilland Canada CC-138 Twin Otter Canada Propeller Transport/SAR 1970s 4 unknown 440 Sqn Yellowknife attached to 17 Wing, Winnipeg.
de Havilland Canada CT-142 Canada Propeller Trainer 1987 4 unknown 402 Sqn 17 Wing, Winnipeg
Lockheed CC-130 Hercules US Propeller Tanker/SAR 1964[24] 12 unknown 8 Wing Trenton, 14 Wing Greenwood and 17 Wing Winnipeg.[25] 4 equipped for aerial refueling (CC-130HT, modified CC-130H); 8 SAR aircraft to be replaced by new FWSAR aircraft (EADS CASA C-295) from 2018-2022[26]
Lockheed CP-140M Aurora US Propeller Maritime patrol/ASW/SAR 1980 14 18[27] 14 were modernized and retained in operational status at 14 Wing Greenwood and 19 Wing Comox. As a cost saving measure, four aircraft were retired.
Lockheed CP-140A Arcturus US Propeller Trainer/Maritime reconnaissance/SAR 1991 0 3 All three aircraft were located at 404 Sqn 14 Wing Greenwood.[28] All three aircraft have been retired. One is located at the Greenwood Military Aviation Museum and two are located at the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group in Tucson, Arizona.
Lockheed Martin
CC-130J Super Hercules 		US Propeller Transport 2010 17 17 Replaced Lockheed CC-130 transport variants.
McDonnell Douglas CF-188A & B US Jet Fighter/attack 1982 76[29] 138 98 A and 40 B models originally acquired. 20 lost to accidents, 41 retired. 3 Wing Bagotville and 4 Wing Cold Lake.[notes 1][30] 18 ex-Royal Australian Air Force F-18s being delivered as an interim measure, increasing the fighter fleet to 94 CF-18/F-18A aircraft.[31]
Beechcraft CT-156 Harvard II US Propeller Trainer 2000 24 26 24 leased in 2000, 2 added in 2002.[32] Two lost in crashes.[33][34]
Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone US Helicopter ASW 2015 24[35] 28 Replaced CH-124 [36] 24 helicopters in service as of March 2022.[35][37] One airframe (Stalker-22) lost to crash on operations.[38]
IAI CU-170 Heron Canada UAV Surveillance and target acquisition 2011 2 3
UMS CU-176 Gargoyle Canada UAV Surveillance and target acquisition 2020 unknown unknown

See also

References

Notes

  1. ^ Unofficially "CF-18".

Citations

  1. ^ World Air Forces 2016. Flightglobal International. 2015. p. 13.
  2. ^ Pugliese, David (16 June 2011). "Obama's choppers purchased for parts for Cormorants". Victoria Times Colonist. Archived from the original on 30 June 2011.
  3. ^ Government of Canada, Public Services and Procurement Canada (January 14, 2020). "Cormorant mid-life upgrade - Air - Defence Procurement - Buying and Selling - PSPC Services - Home". www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca.
  4. ^ "Seat malfunction led to Canadian helicopter crash - AeroTime". 7 April 2022.
  5. ^ "Human errors caused helicopter crash, probe finds". The Globe and Mail. 12 March 2008.
  6. ^ Defence, National (July 15, 2022). "Canada moves forward with the acquisition of aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force". www.canada.ca.
  7. ^ "Initial operational capability of Canada's CC-295 FWSAR aircraft delayed to 2025-26". 4 May 2022.
  8. ^ "Government of Canada provides an update on the operationalization of the CC-295 Kingfisher". 4 May 2022.
  9. ^ "CT155 Walkaround". Ipmslondon.ca. Archived from the original on 2011-06-13. Retrieved 2011-03-17.
  10. ^ "CH-139 Jet Ranger". Royal Canadian Air Force. Government of Canada. 10 April 2013. Retrieved 21 June 2016.
  11. ^ "CH-146 Griffon". Royal Canadian Air Force. Government of Canada. 10 April 2013. Retrieved 21 June 2016.
  12. ^ "Canada receives fifth and final C-17 airlifter - IHS Jane's 360". IHS Jane's 360. Retrieved 1 April 2015.
  13. ^ Canada, Service (August 31, 2016). "News". aem.
  14. ^ Canadian Press (August 2009). "Boeing nets $1.2B contract for 15 Chinook choppers". Archived from the original on August 12, 2009. Retrieved 2009-08-10.
  15. ^ Pugliese, David. "It's Official: First CH-147F Delivered To Canadian Military | Ottawa Citizen". Blogs.ottawacitizen.com. Archived from the original on 2013-07-02. Retrieved 2013-07-03.
  16. ^ "Boeing Completes Delivery of Canadian CH-147F Chinooks Transport Helicopter". July 2, 2014.
  17. ^ 28-Oct-2010 16:13 UTC (2010-10-28). "On The Verge: Canada's $4B+ Program for Medium-Heavy Transport Helicopters". Defenseindustrydaily.com. Retrieved 2011-03-17.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  18. ^ "L-3 WESCAM to Supply Boeing with MX-15 EO/IR Imaging Sensors for Canadian Forces Helicopter Program A CH-147D (147202) was shot down in August 2010 by small arms fire which started an engine fire". Asdwire.com. 2009-10-27. Retrieved 2011-03-17.
  19. ^ "Canadian Forces confirms helicopter was brought down by small arms fire". The Globe and Mail.
  20. ^ "Members killed in military helicopter crash near Garrison Petawawa, PM says". CBC News. June 20, 2023.
  21. ^ "CT-114 Tutor". Royal Canadian Air Force. Government of Canada. 10 April 2013. Retrieved 21 June 2016.
  22. ^ "Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment (AETE)". Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame. 15 February 2021. Retrieved 18 August 2023.
  23. ^ "AETE to join testing 'centre of excellence' in Ottawa". Skies Magazine. 11 January 2019. Retrieved 18 August 2023.
  24. ^ "CC-130 Hercules". Royal Canadian Air Force. Government of Canada. 10 April 2013. Retrieved 21 June 2016.
  25. ^ "Canadian Forces CC-130 Hercules". Ody.ca. Archived from the original on 2011-07-06. Retrieved 2011-03-17.
  26. ^ "Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue Aircraft Replacement Project - Defence Procurement - Buying and Selling - PWGSC". Archived from the original on 2016-09-04. Retrieved 2016-09-09.
  27. ^ "CP-140 Aurora". Royal Canadian Air Force. Government of Canada. 10 April 2013. Retrieved 21 June 2016.
  28. ^ "The Final Flight of CP140/A AC120... | Articles | News & Events - News Room | 14 Wing Greenwood | RCAF | DND/CF". Archived from the original on 22 July 2012. Retrieved 27 December 2019.
  29. ^ Government of Canada, National Defence (April 10, 2013). "CF-188 Hornet | Aircraft | Royal Canadian Air Force". www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca.
  30. ^ "Canadian CF-18 fighter jets to be kept in use until 2025". October 2, 2014.
  31. ^ "First used Australian fighter jets now flying in RCAF colours with more to come | National Post". July 14, 2019.
  32. ^ "Canadian Forces CT-156". Ody.ca. Archived from the original on 2011-07-06. Retrieved 2011-03-17.
  33. ^ "2 military pilots eject safely before crash at 15 Wing Moose Jaw". CBC News. Jan 24, 2014. Retrieved 4 April 2015.
  34. ^ "Military pilots forced to eject while practising aerobatics: DND report". The Globe and Mail. Mar 28, 2017. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
  35. ^ a b "CH-148 Cyclone procurement project". 13 March 2013.
  36. ^ "Canada gets six Cyclone helicopters". June 19, 2015.
  37. ^ Defence, National (March 13, 2013). "CH-148 Cyclone procurement project". www.canada.ca.
  38. ^ Defence, National (April 30, 2020). "One Canadian military member killed and five missing in helicopter accident". www.canada.ca.

Bibliography

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