Jump to content

Royal Canadian Air Force: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous editNext edit →
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
rm copyvio images
m Reverted edits by 67.193.177.117 (talk) to last version by Anotherclown
Line 1: Line 1:
{{redirect|RCAF}}
{| align=right
{{Infobox military unit
| {{Canadian Air Force}}
|unit_name= Royal Canadian Air Force
|-
|native_name= {{lang|fr|''Aviation royale canadienne''}}
|}
|image= [[File:Royal Canadian Air Force Badge.png|centre|250px]]
[[Image:CF-18Flare.jpg|thumb|right|200px|CF-18 Hornet]]
|caption=
[[Image:CC-115 Buffalo.jpg|right|thumb|200px|CC-115 Buffalo]]
|dates= {{nowrap| 1 April 1924&nbsp;– present<br>({{Age in years and months|1924|04|1}})}}
[[Image:CT-114.jpg|thumb|200px|CT-114 Tutor]]
|country= {{flag|Canada}}
|allegiance= [[Elizabeth II|Queen Elizabeth II]]
|type= [[Air force]]
|role= "To generate and maintain combat capable, multi-purpose, air forces to meet Canada's defence objectives."
|size= Regular Force personnel: 14,500<br />Reserve Force: 2,600<br />Civilians: 2,500<ref name="size">[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/site/purpose/today5_e.asp "Purpose – General Information."] ''National Defence'', 23 April 2008. Retrieved: 2 September 2009.</ref>
|command_structure= [[Canadian Forces|Canadian Armed Forces]]
|garrison= [[National Defence Headquarters]], [[Ottawa]]
|garrison_label= Headquarters
|nickname=
|patron=
|motto= {{lang|la|''[[Sic itur ad astra]]''}}<br />"Such is the pathway to the stars"<ref>[http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/v2/hst/page-eng.asp?id=626 "Sic Itur ad Astra – Traditions Motto/Words."] ''National Defence'', 23 April 2009, Retrieved: 1 April 2013.</ref>
{{lang|la|''[[Per ardua ad astra]]''}}<br/>"Through adversity to the stars" – (1924 to 1968)
|colors=
|colors_label= Colours
|march="[[RCAF March Past]]"
|mascot=
|equipment=
|equipment_label=
|battles=[[World War II]]<br>[[Korean War]]<br>[[Gulf War]]<br>[[Operation Deliberate Force]]<br>[[Kosovo War]]<br>[[War in Afghanistan (2001–present)|War in Afghanistan]]<br>[[2011 military intervention in Libya|Intervention in Libya]]
* [[Operation Odyssey Dawn]]
;* [[Operation Mobile]]
[[American-led intervention in Iraq|Iraqi Insurgency]]
* [[Operation Impact]]
[[Syrian Civil War]]
|anniversaries= [[Armed Forces Day#Canada|Armed Forces Day]] (First Sunday of June)
|decorations=
|battle_honours=
|disbanded=
<!-- Commanders -->
|commander1= {{Canadian monarch, current|nameonly=~}}, [[Monarchy of Canada|{{Canadian monarch, current|title=~}} of Canada]], represented by [[Governor General of Canada|Governor General]], [[David Johnston]]
|commander1_label= [[Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Forces|Commander-in-chief]]
|commander2= [[Lieutenant-General]] [[Michael Hood]]
|commander2_label= [[Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force]]
|commander3=
|commander3_label=
|notable_commanders=
<!-- Insignia -->
|identification_symbol= [[File:Royal Canadian Air Force ensign.svg|160px]]
|identification_symbol_label= [[Royal Canadian Air Force Ensign|Ensign]]
|identification_symbol_2= [[File:RCAF-Roundel.svg|80px]] [[File:RCAF-LowVis-Roundel.svg|80px]]
|identification_symbol_2_label= [[Roundels]]
|identification_symbol_3= [[File:Flag of Canada.svg|80px|Fin flash]] [[File:Fin flash of Canada low visibility.svg|80px|Low visibility fin flash]]
|identification_symbol_3_label= [[Fin flashes]]
<!-- Aircraft -->
|aircraft_attack=
|aircraft_bomber=
|aircraft_electronic=
|aircraft_fighter= [[McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet|CF-18 Hornet]]
|aircraft_helicopter= [[CH-124 Sea King]], [[Bell 206|CH-139 JetRanger]], [[CH-146 Griffon]], [[CH-47 Chinook|CH-147 Chinook]], [[CH-148 Cyclone]], [[CH-149 Cormorant]]
|aircraft_helicopter_attack=
|aircraft_helicopter_cargo=
|aircraft_helicopter_multirole=
|aircraft_helicopter_observation=
|aircraft_helicopter_transport=
|aircraft_helicopter_utility=
|aircraft_interceptor=
|aircraft_patrol= [[CP-140 Aurora]], [[CP-140 Aurora|CP-140A Arcturus]]
|aircraft_recon= [[IAI Heron|CU-170 Heron]],
|aircraft_trainer= [[Canadair CT-114 Tutor|CT-114 Tutor]], [[de Havilland Canada DHC-8 Dash 8|CT-142 Dash-8]], [[BAE Hawk|CT-155 Hawk]], [[Beechcraft T-6 Texan II|CT-156 Harvard II]]
|aircraft_transport= [[De Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo|CC-115 Buffalo]], [[Lockheed C-130 Hercules|CC-130 Hercules]], [[Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules|CC-130J Super Hercules]], [[de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|CC-138 Twin Otter]], [[Bombardier Challenger 600|CC-144 Challenger]], [[Airbus CC-150 Polaris|CC-150 Polaris]], [[Boeing C-17 Globemaster III|CC-177 Globemaster III]]
}}

The '''Royal Canadian Air Force''' ('''RCAF''') ([[French language|French]]: ''Aviation royale canadienne'', '''ARC'''), formerly, formally the '''Canadian Forces Air Command''' ('''AIRCOM'''), is the [[air force]] of Canada. The RCAF is one of three environmental commands within the unified [[Canadian Armed Forces]]. As of 2013, operating 258 manned aircraft and 9 [[Unmanned aerial vehicle|UAV]]s, the Royal Canadian Air Force consists of 14,500 [[Regular Force]] and 2,600 [[Primary Reserve]] personnel, supported by 2,500 civilians.<ref name="size" /><ref>Berthiaume, Lee. [http://news.nationalpost.com/2011/11/29/canadian-air-forces-new-name-got-lost-in-translation-documents-show/ "Air force's new name got lost in translation, documents show."] ''Postmedia News'', 29 November 2011.</ref> Lieutenant-General [[Michael J. Hood]], {{post-nominals| country=CAN| CMM| CD}}, is the current [[Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force]] and Chief of the Air Force Staff.

The Royal Canadian Air Force is responsible for all aircraft operations of the Canadian Forces, enforcing the security of [[Canada|Canada's]] airspace and providing aircraft to support the missions of the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] and the [[Canadian Army]]. The RCAF is a partner with the [[United States Air Force]] in protecting continental airspace under the [[North American Aerospace Defense Command]] (NORAD). The RCAF also provides all primary air resources to and is responsible for the [[National Search and Rescue Program]].

The RCAF traces its history to the [[Canadian Air Force (1920–1924)|Canadian Air Force]] which was formed in 1920. The Canadian Air Force was incorporated in 1923 and granted royal sanction in 1924 by King [[George V]].


In 1968 the RCAF was amalgamated with the [[Royal Canadian Navy]], and the [[Canadian Army]], as part of the [[unification of the Canadian Forces]]. Air units were split between several different commands: [[Canadian Forces Air Defence Command|Air Defence Command]] (interceptors), [[Canadian Forces Air Transport Command|Air Transport Command]] (airlift, search and rescue), [[Canadian Forces Land Force Command|Mobile Command]] (tactical fighters, helicopters), [[Canadian Forces Maritime Command|Maritime Command]] (anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrol), as well as [[Canadian Forces Training Command|Training Command]].
'''Canadian Forces Air Command''' ('''AIRCOM''') is the [[air force]] element of the [[Canadian 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.


In 1975 some commands were dissolved (ADC, ATC, TC), and all air units were placed under a new environmental command called simply [[Canadian Forces Air Command|Air Command]] (AIRCOM). Air Command reverted to its historic name the "Royal Canadian Air Force" in August 2011.<ref>[http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2011/08/15/pol-canadian-forces-names.html "Canadian Forces name."] ''CBC''. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref> The Royal Canadian Air Force has served in the [[World War II|Second World War]], the [[Korean War]], the [[Gulf War|Persian Gulf War]], as well as several [[United Nations]] peacekeeping missions and [[NATO]] operations. As a NATO member, the force maintained a presence in [[Western Europe|Europe]] during the second half of the 20th century.
==Mission==
AIRCOM is responsible for all aircraft operations in the Canadian Forces, enforcing Canada's airspace and provides aircraft for supporting the missions of [[Canadian Forces Maritime Command|Maritime Command]] and [[Canadian Forces Land Force Command|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==
==History==
''For history before 1968, see [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]''
{{main|History of the Royal Canadian Air Force}}


===1920–68===
[[Image:RCAF-Roundel.svg|thumb|left|100px|The Air Force Roundel is based on that of the British [[Royal Air Force]], with the central circle replaced by a maple leaf]]
The [[Canadian Air Force (1920–1924)|Canadian Air Force]] (CAF) was established in 1920 as the successor to a short-lived two-squadron [[Canadian Air Force (1918–1920)|Canadian Air Force]] formed during the [[World War I|First World War]] in Europe. The new Canadian Air Force was a branch of the [[Air Board (Canada)|Air Board]] and was chiefly a training militia that provided refresher training to veteran pilots.<ref>Roberts, Leslie. ''There Shall Be Wings''. Toronto: Clark, Irwin and Co. Ltd., 1959. No ISBN. p. 33</ref><ref>Milberry, Larry, ed. ''Sixty Years—The RCAF and CF Air Command 1924–1984''. Toronto: Canav Books, 1984. ISBN 0-9690703-4-9. p. 17</ref> Many CAF members also worked with the Air Board's Civil Operations Branch on operations that included [[forestry]], [[Aerial survey|surveying]] and anti-smuggling patrols.<ref>[http://www.canmilair.com/rcafhistory.htm A History of Air Services in Canada] Retrieved: 21 May 2014</ref> In 1923, the CAF became responsible for all flying operations in Canada, including civil aviation. In 1924, the Canadian Air Force, was granted the royal title, becoming the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Most of its work was civil in nature; however, in the late 1920s the RCAF evolved into more of a military organization. After budget cuts in the early 1930s, the air force began to rebuild. During the [[Second World War]] the RCAF was a major contributor to the [[British Commonwealth Air Training Plan]] and was involved in operations in [[Great Britain]], Europe, the north Atlantic, north Africa, southern Asia, and with home defence. By the end of the war, the RCAF had become the fourth largest allied air force.<ref>Milberry, Larry, ed. ''Sixty Years—The RCAF and CF Air Command 1924–1984''. Toronto: Canav Books, 1984. ISBN 0-9690703-4-9. p. 97</ref>


After the war, the RCAF reduced its strength. Because of the rising [[Soviet Bloc|Soviet]] threat to the security of Europe, Canada joined [[NATO]] in 1949, and the RCAF established [[No. 1 Air Division RCAF]] consisting of four wings with three fighter squadrons each, based in [[France]] and [[West Germany]]. In 1950, the RCAF became involved with the transport of troops and supplies to the [[Korean War]]; however, it did not provide RCAF combat units. Members of the RCAF served in USAF units as exchange officers and several flew in combat. At the same time, the [[Pinetree Line]], the [[Mid-Canada Line]] and the [[DEW Line]] radar stations, largely operated by the RCAF, were built across Canada because of the growing Soviet nuclear threat. In 1957, Canada and the United States created the joint [[North American Aerospace Defense Command]] (NORAD). Coastal defence and peacekeeping also became priorities during the 1950s and 1960s.
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.


===1968–present===
[[Canadian Forces Air Defence Command|Air Defence Command]] consisted primarily of former RCAF [[CF-101 Voodoo]] fighter-interceptor aircraft, as well as the radar networks of [[DEW Line]], [[Mid-Canada Line]] and [[Pinetree Line]] early warning stations. [[Canadian Forces Air Transport Command|Air Transport Command]] was responsible for strategic airlift and refueling aircraft, namely the [[CC-137 Husky]], with the primary role being to transport ground troops from [[Canadian Forces Land Force Command|Mobile Command]] to and from distant conflict zones in Europe. Mobile Command itself was composed of former Canadian Army ground forces, as well as the army's tactical helicopters ([[CH-135 Twin Huey]], [[CH-136 Kiowa]], [[CH-147 Chinook]], [[CH-113 Labrador|CH-113A Voyageur]]) and the RCAF's tactical and ground attack aircraft ([[CF-104 Starfighter]]). [[Canadian Forces Maritime Command|Maritime Command]] was transferred responsibility for the newly-formed Maritime Air Group, which operated aircraft in support of former RCN vessels, including [[CH-124 Sea King]], [[CP-107 Argus]], and the [[CP-121 Tracker]], some of which operated from [[HMCS Bonaventure|HMCS ''Bonaventure'']] until that vessel's retirement in the early [[1970s]]. Pilot and aircrew training were taken over by [[Canadian Forces Training Command|Training Command]], which was responsible for trades training across all other commands in the armed forces.
[[File:Badge of the Royal Canadian Air Force.jpg|thumb|200px|Badge of Air Command, replaced by new RCAF badge in 2013]]
In 1968 the [[Royal Canadian Navy]], Royal Canadian Air Force and [[Canadian Army]] were amalgamated to form the unified [[Canadian Forces]]. This initiative was overseen by then Liberal Defence Minister, [[Paul Hellyer]]. The controversial merger maintained several existing organizations and created some new ones: In Europe, No. 1 Air Division, operated [[Canadair CF-104 Starfighter]] nuclear strike/attack and reconnaissance under NATO's 4 ATAF; Air Defence Command: operated [[McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo]] interceptors, [[CIM-10 Bomarc]] missiles and the SAGE radar system within NORAD; Air Transport Command: provided strategic airlift for the NATO and UN Peacekeeping missions; and [[Canadian Forces Training Command|Training Command]]. Aviation assets of the Royal Canadian Navy were combined with the RCAF [[Canadair CP-107 Argus]] long-range patrol aircraft under Maritime Command. In 1975, the different commands, and the scattered aviation assets, were consolidated under Air Command (AIRCOM).


In the early 1990s, Canada provided a detachment of CF-18 Hornets for the air defence mission in [[Operation Desert Shield]]. The force performed [[combat air patrol]]s over operations in Kuwait and Iraq, undertook a number of air-to-ground bombing missions, and, on one occasion, attacked an Iraqi patrol boat in the Persian Gulf.
On [[September 2]], [[1975]], the Canadian Forces saw a reorganization that merged all aircraft across all commands into a newly formed Air Command (AIRCOM). At this time, Air Defence Command and Air Transport Command were eliminated, and Training Command, Maritime Command, and Mobile Command (renamed Force Mobile Command) were realigned to reflect the new structure. AIRCOM was in-effect the modern rebirth of the RCAF as the new command would handle all the aviation requirements of Canada's military.


In the late 1990s, Air Command's [[McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet|CF-188 Hornet]]s took part in the [[1999 NATO bombing of Yugoslavia|Operation Allied Force]] in [[Yugoslavia]], and in the 2000s, AIRCOM was heavily involved in the [[War in Afghanistan (2001–present)|Afghanistan War]], transporting troops and assets to Kandahar. Later in the decade-long war, AIRCOM set up a purpose-specific air wing, Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing, equipped with several [[Bell CH-146 Griffon|CH-146 Griffon]] and [[Boeing CH-47 Chinook|CH-147 Chinook]] helicopters, CC-130 Hercules and leased [[IAI Heron|CU-170 Heron]] [[unmanned aerial vehicle|UAV]]s in support of the Canadian Forces and [[ISAF]] mission. The wing stood down on 18 August 2011.
Duplication saw several base closings through the [[1970s]]-[[1990s]], largely as aircraft changes took place. The acquisition of the [[CF-18 Hornet|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.


From 18 March to 1 November 2011 the RCAF was engaged in [[Operation Mobile]], Canada's contribution to [[Operation Unified Protector]] in Libya. Seven CF-18 Hornet fighter aircraft and several other aircraft served under Task Force Libeccio as part of the military intervention.
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-140A 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]].


On 16 August 2011, the Government of Canada announced that the name "Air Command" was being changed to the air force's original historic name: Royal Canadian Air Force (along with the change of name of Maritime Command to Royal Canadian Navy and Land Force Command to Canadian Army). The change was made to better reflect Canada's military heritage and align Canada with other key [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] countries whose military units use the royal designation.<ref>Galloway, Gloria. [http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/conservatives-to-restore-royal-moniker-to-canadas-navy-air-force/article590957/ "Conservatives to restore ‘royal’ monikers for navy, air force."] ''The Globe and Mail,'' 15 August 2011. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref>
After unification, all personnel in the Canadian Forces wore a dark-green uniform with only cap and collar badges (a modified version of the former RCAF crest) as distinguishing marks for pilots and aircrew. This uniform continued under the newly-formed AIRCOM from 1975 until the mid-1980s, when 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.
The new RCAF adopted a new badge in 2013, which is similar to the pre-unification RCAF badge (although placed in the modern frame used for command badges). The Latin motto of Air Command – ''Sic itur ad astra'' – which was the motto of the Canadian Air Force when first formed after the First World War (before it became the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1924) was retained. There has been no restoration of the traditional uniforms or rank structure of the historical service.<ref>Fitzpatrick, Meagan. [http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2011/08/16/pol-military-renaming.html "Peter MacKay hails 'royal' renaming of military."] ''CBC News,'' 16 August 2011. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref>


On 17 April 2014, [[Prime Minister Stephen Harper]] announced [[Canada]] is sending six [[CF-18]]s and military personnel to assist [[NATO]] in operations in Eastern Europe.<ref>[http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/canada-sending-frigate-to-nato-security-effort-in-eastern-europe/article18343817/ "Canada sending frigate to join NATO in eastern Europe|."] ''The Globe and Mail'', 1 May 2014.</ref>
In the early [[1990s]], AIRCOM transport and utility helicopters in support of [[Canadian Forces Land Force Command|army]] operations were cut back 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 continues to consider this a loss of capability, particularly with the loss of the heavy lift Chinooks.


== Aircraft ==
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.
[[File:Globemaster 0026.jpg|thumb|right|[[C-17 Globemaster III|CC-177 Globemaster III]]]]
{{main|List of aircraft of the Royal Canadian Air Force|l1=List of aircraft of the Royal Canadian Air Force (current inventory only)}}
{{main|List of aircraft of Canada's air forces|l1=List of aircraft of Canada's air forces (complete inventory including retired types)}}


The Royal Canadian Air Force has approximately 391 aircraft in service, which is the sixth largest air force in the [[Americas]], after the [[United States Air Force]], [[United States Navy]], [[United States Army]], [[United States Marine Corps]] and [[Brazilian Air Force]].
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==
===Fixed-wing===
;[[Airbus CC-150 Polaris]]
===Strike, Attack and Offensive Support Aircraft===
:Second-hand Airbus A310 transports purchased in 1992 for use as a strategic transports and air-to-air tankers to replace the [[Boeing CC-137]]. Two have been converted to tankers and are designated the CC-150T. One is permanently configured for [[Royal Canadian Air Force VIP aircraft|VIP transport]]; five aircraft operated by [[437 Transport Squadron|437 Squadron]] based at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario.
* 115 [[McDonnell-Douglas]] '''[[CF-18 Hornet]]''' tactical fighter bombers


;[[BAe Hawk|BAe CT-155 Hawk]]
===Maritime Patrol/Reconnaissance Aircraft===
:Single-engined lead-in fighter trainer leased in 2000. 16 aircraft in service, based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, SK and 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta.
* 18 [[Lockheed Corporation]] '''[[CP-140 Aurora]]''' long-range patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft
* 3 [[Lockheed Corporation]] '''[[CP-140A Arcturus]]''' long-range patrol aircraft
* 6 [[SAGEM]] '''[[SAGEM Sperwer|CU-161 Sperwer]]''' Drone/UAV


;[[Beechcraft King Air|Beechcraft King Air C-90B]]
===Helicopters===
:Multi-engine training aircraft. Leased to RCAF by [[Allied Wings]], 7 aircraft are based at Portage la Prairie, MB.
* 86 [[Bell Helicopter Textron]] '''[[CH-146 Griffon]]''' tactical transport helicopters
* 28 [[Sikorsky Aircraft]] '''[[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk|CH-148 Cyclone]]''' (''to be delivered in [[2008]])''
* 27 [[Sikorsky Aircraft]] '''[[H-3 Sea King|CH-124 Sea King]]''' maritime anti-submarine warfare helicopters
* 14 [[AgustaWestland]] '''[[AgustaWestland EH101|CH-149 Cormorant]]''' search and rescue helicopters
* 14 [[Bell Helicopter Textron]] '''[[Bell 206|CH-139 Jet Ranger]]''' light helicopters


;[[C-17 Globemaster III|Boeing CC-177 Globemaster III]]
===Transport and Air-to-Air Refuelling Aircraft===
:Five strategic airlifters operated by 429 (T) Squadron based at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario. Four were delivered in 2007 and 2008, a fifth was delivered in 2015.<ref>http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=956819&tp=1</ref>
* 32 [[Lockheed Corporation]] '''[[C-130 Hercules|CC-130 Hercules]]''' combat transports
* 5 [[Airbus]] '''[[CC-150 Polaris]]''' long range transports (2 have air-air refuelling capability)
* 6 [[De Havilland Canada]] '''[[De Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo|CC-115 Buffalo]]''' short range transports
* 6 [[Canadair]] '''[[Bombardier Challenger 600|CC-144 Challenger]]''' jet transports (4 VIP/2 utility)
* 4 [[De Havilland Canada]] '''[[De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|CC-138 Twin Otter]]''' short range transports


;[[Bombardier Challenger 600|Bombardier CC-144 Challenger]]
===Training Aircraft===
:Utility and VIP transport aircraft first delivered in 1982. Early Challenger 600 and 601 models were supplemented by 604 models in 2002. Six operated by [[412 Transport Squadron|412(T) Sqn]] and based in Ottawa, but belong to 8 Wing Trenton.
* 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


;[[Canadair CT-114 Tutor]]
===Proposed Future Aircraft===
:Entered service in 1962 as a basic and advanced jet trainer with 190 originally ordered, replaced by the [[T-6 Texan II|CT-156 Harvard II]] and [[CT-155 Hawk]] in 2000. A total of 24 remain in service used by [[431 Air Demonstration Squadron]], "The [[Snowbirds]]".


;[[de Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo|DHC CC-115 Buffalo]]
{| border=1 style="border-collapse: collapse;"
:A Twin-engined utility/cargo transport now used for search and rescue. Six used by 442 Transport and Rescue Sqn. at 19 Wing Comox, BC.
|- bgcolor=cccccc
[[File:CF-18 Hornet fires AIM-7 Sparrow 2004.JPEG|thumb|A CF-18 Hornet fires an [[AIM-7 Sparrow]] air-to-air missile at a [[Beechcraft MQM-107 Streaker|MQM-107E Streaker]] aerial target drone during a "Combat Archer" mission]]
!Number!!Builder!!Model!!Type!!Dates
;[[de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|DHC CC-138 Twin Otter]]
|-
:A twin-engined utility transport operated since the 1970s, Four remain based at Yellowknife, NT.
|
| [[Lockheed Corporation|Lockheed Martin]]
| '''[[F-35 Lightning II]]'''
| strike fighter
|
|-
| 17<ref> [http://www.merx.com/English/SUPPLIER_Menu.Asp?WCE=Show&TAB=1&State=7&id=PW-%24SSC-004-13707&hcode=NT%2bkpGGIHiW1FnM88FKSEQ%3d%3d Airlift Capability Project - Tactical] MERX Website - Government of Canada</ref>
| [[TBD]]
| Replacement for '''[[C-130 Hercules]]'''
| short haul tactical lift aircraft
| 2010
|-
| 4<ref> [http://www.merx.com/English/SUPPLIER_Menu.Asp?WCE=Show&TAB=1&State=7&id=PW-%24SSC-004-13706&hcode=lZi0smL%2fmio4eGxwwqDpfg%3d%3d Airlift Capability Project - Strategic ACP-S - ACAN] MERX Website - Government of Canada</ref>
| [[Boeing Integrated Defense Systems]]
| '''[[C-17 Globemaster III]]'''
| strategic lift aircraft
| 2006
|-
| 16<ref> [http://www.merx.com/English/SUPPLIER_Menu.Asp?WCE=Show&TAB=1&State=7&id=PW-TALC-002-13708&hcode=ZWzGe9lyvc4xw%2beDiyvNYw%3d%3d Medium to Heavy Lift Helicopter (MHLH) - ACAN] MERX Website - Government of Canada</ref>
| [[Boeing Integrated Defense Systems]]
| '''[[CH-47 Chinook]]'''
| heavy lift helicopters
| 2009
|}


;[[de Havilland Canada DHC-8 Dash 8|DHC CT-142 Dash 8]]
Notes:
:Twin-engined converted regional airliner entered service in 1987 as an aerial navigation and tactics trainer, Four are operated by 402 "City of Winnipeg" Sqn and stationed at [[CFB Winnipeg|17 Wing, Winnipeg, MB]]
* Canada has contributed $150 Million to the JSF program as a Tier III Partner<ref>[http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/2002/t02072002_t0207sd.html Joint Strike Fighter Signing Ceremony] Department of Defense [[February 7]], [[2002]].</ref> but this does not commit Canada to purchasing the [[F-35 Lightning II]].
* The replacement for the current C-130E model Hercules is expected to be the C-130J model. Vendors have until [[August 8]], [[2006]] to submit aircraft they believe meets the [http://www.forces.gc.ca/admmat/dgmpd/pmoacp operational requirements].


;[[Grob 120]]A
==Wings==
:Single engine primary trainer used to train pilot candidates before they move onto the [[Raytheon CT-156 Harvard II|Harvard II]]. Leased to RCAF by [[Allied Wings]], 11 aircraft are based at Portage la Prairie, MB.
[[Image:5 Wing Goose Bay.jpg|right|thumb|250px|5 Wing Goose Bay]]
<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:CFB Cold Lake satellite view.JPG|right|thumb|250px|4 Wing Cold Lake]] -->
[[Image:Bagotville-aerien.jpg|right|thumb|250px|3 Wing Bagotville]]
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.


[[File:Lockheed CC-130H Hercules (8111583732) (2).jpg|thumb|CC-130H Hercules on approach to Winnipeg Airport]]
*'''[[CFB Kingston|1 Wing Kingston]]'''
;[[Lockheed C-130 Hercules|Lockheed CC-130E/H Hercules]]
: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.
:Four-engined tactical transport. Several versions have been operated since 1960. Remaining CC-130Hs used for search and rescue and air-to-air refuelling. 23 aircraft remain in service, five of which have been converted to air-to-air tankers. Based at 14 Wing Greenwood, NS, 8 Wing Trenton, ON and 17 Wing, Winnipeg, MB.


;[[Lockheed CP-140 Aurora]]
*'''[[CFB Bagotville|3 Wing Bagotville]]'''
:Four-engined maritime patrol aircraft based on the [[United States|American]] [[P-3 Orion|Lockheed P-3 Orion]]; entered service in 1980 and now based at 19 Wing Comox, BC and 14 Wing Greenwood, NS
: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.


;[[Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules|Lockheed Martin CC-130J Super Hercules]]
*'''[[CFB Cold Lake|4 Wing Cold Lake]]'''
:Four-engined tactical airlifter replacing earlier Hercules variants in that role.<ref>Warwick, Graham. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/01/16/220873/canada-signs-1.4bn-contract-for-17-lockheed-martin.html "Canada signs $1.4bn contract for 17 Lockheed Martin C-130Js."] ''Flight International'', 16 January 2008. Retrieved: 17 January 2008.</ref> A total of 17 are in service operated by 436 (T) Squadron based at 8 Wing Trenton.<ref>[http://www.ody.ca/~bwalker/CF_CC130.html "Canadian Forces CC-130 Hercules."] ''Ody.ca .'' Retrieved: 20 March 2011.</ref>
: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.


;[[McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet]]
*'''[[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]]'''
:Fighter entered service in 1982 when 98 single-seat CF-18As and 40 two-seat CF-18Bs were ordered. Seventeen have been lost since 1984.<ref name="Ejection history">[http://www.ejection-history.org.uk/Aircraft_by_Type/CF-18/cf_18_hornet.htm "CF-18 Hornet in Canadian Service."] ''ejection-history.org.uk.'' Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref> Stationed at 3 Wing Bagotville, Quebec and 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta; 77 CF-18s remain in active service.<ref>[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation/october-2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-defence-military-industry-/1196-canadian-cf-18-fighter-jets-kept-in-use-until-2025.html "Canadian CF-18 fighter jets to be kept in use until 2025."] ''airrecognition.com'', 2 October 2014.</ref>
:The site of [[NATO]] tactical low-level flying training in Canada, 5 Wing located in [[Labrador]], is home to permanent detachments from 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.


;[[Raytheon CT-156 Harvard II]]
*'''[[CFB Trenton|8 Wing Trenton]]'''
:Single-engined trainer leased from 2000 to replace the [[Canadair CT-114 Tutor]]. 25 aircraft based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, SK
: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.


=== Rotary wing ===
*'''[[Gander International Airport|9 Wing Gander]]'''
;[[Bell 206|Bell CH-139 JetRanger]]
: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.
:Single-engined utility and training helicopter. Ordered for 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School at CFB Portage la Prairie, MB; used by Regular Forces in CFB Lahr in Germany and in Canada during the 1980s; replaced by [[CH-146 Griffon]]s. 12 aircraft remain, leased from [[Allied Wings]], used for flight training in Portage la Prairie, MB.


;[[Bell CH-146 Griffon]]
*'''[[CFB Shearwater|12 Wing Shearwater]]'''
:A utility transport tactical helicopter (UTTH) that entered service between 1995 and 1997. Original purchase of 100 aircraft to replace the CH-136 Kiowa (Bell 206), CH-135 Twin Huey (Bell 212), CH-118 Iroquois (Bell 205), and Boeing C-Model Chinooks CH-47C. Based at Bagotville, Quebec (439 Squadron), St. Hubert, Quebec (438 Squadron), Cold Lake, Alberta (417 Squadron), Gagetown, New Brunswick (403 Squadron), Valcartier, Quebec (430 Squadron), Goose Bay, Newfoundland (444 Squadron), Edmonton, Alberta (408 Squadron), Petawawa, Ontario (427 Squadron) and Borden, Ontario (400 Squadron); also perform search and rescue duties at 8 Wing Trenton (424 Squadron). Deployed to Afghanistan to provide escorts for the Chinooks, armed with a combination of 7.62mm C-6 machine gun, 7.62mm [[Minigun|Dillon Aero M134D]] Gatling gun, and GAU-21 .50 caliber machine gun on one or both doors.<ref>[http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/commun/ml-fe/photo-eng.asp?id=3429 "Dillon Aero 7.62 mm M134 Minigun during exercise near Kandahar."] ''The Maple Leaf'', Vol. 12, No. 9, 4 March 2009. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref><ref name="DND25Nov08">[http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/view-news-afficher-nouvelles-eng.asp?id=2816 "Canada Increases Air Capabilities in Afghanistan."] ''DND/CF News,'' November 2008. Retrieved: 13 March 2009</ref><ref>[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/site/opdocs/docs/JTF-Afg/fs-ft/ch146-griffon-eng.pdf "Griffon at Kandahar."] ''airforce.forces.gc.ca.'' Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref> 9 ex-RCAF Griffons, designated CT-146, are leased from [[Allied Wings]] for pilot training at Portage la Prairie, MB.
: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.
[[File:CH-124SeaKing.jpg|thumb|right|CH-124 Sea King]]
[[File:Tupolev Tu 95 USAF.jpg|thumb|right|A Soviet [[Tupolev Tu-95|Tupolev Tu-95 Bear-H]] bomber being escorted by a CF-18A Hornet in 1987]]
;[[Sikorsky CH-124 Sea King]]
:A ship-based transport/anti-submarine helicopter that entered service between 1963 and 1969. Based at 12 Wing Shearwater (406 & 423 Squadrons), NS and Patricia Bay (443 Squadron), BC and due to be replaced by the [[Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone]].


;[[AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant]]
*'''[[CFB Greenwood|14 Wing Greenwood]]'''
:Triple-engined search and rescue helicopter that replaced the [[CH-113 Labrador]]. Fourteen delivered between 2000 and 2002. Based at (103 Squadron) 9 Wing Gander, Newfoundland, (413 Squadron) 14 Wing Greenwood, Nova Scotia and (442 Squadron) 19 Wing Comox, British Columbia. One aircraft has been lost in a training accident.
: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.


;[[Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone]]
*'''[[CFB Moose Jaw|15 Wing Moose Jaw]]'''
:Ship-based transport/anti-submarine helicopter based on the [[Sikorsky S-92|Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk]]. Twenty-eight ordered to replace the Sea King from 2009. Delays pushed the delivery date to 2015 when six were delivered. They are expected to enter service in 2016.
:The site of the NATO Flying Training Program in Canada, 15 Wing is also home to the [[Snowbirds]], the Air Forces' aerobatic team.
;[[Boeing CH-47 Chinook|Boeing CH-147F Chinook]]
:The CH-147F Chinook is an advanced, multi-mission, medium to heavy-lift helicopter. Its primary mission is the tactical transport of equipment and personnel during domestic or deployed operations. [[450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]], under the command of [[1 Wing Kingston]], Ont., and based in [[CFB Petawawa]], Ont., was re-established as the home of Canadaʼs fleet of 15 CH-147F Chinooks. The first two airframes underwent intensive operational test and evaluation in the United States for several months before Canada received the first airframe 147303 at an official acceptance ceremony at the [[Ottawa International Airport]] on 27 June 2013.<ref>
[http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/v2/nr-sp/index-eng.asp?id=13967 First CH-147F Chinook helicopter welcomed to Canada], ''National Defence- Royal Canadian Air Force'' Retrieved: 28 June 2013.</ref><ref>[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation/july-2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-defence-/1068-boeing-completes-delivery-of-canadian-ch-147f-chinooks-transport-helicopter.html "Boeing Completes Delivery of Canadian CH-147F Chinooks Transport Helicopter."] ''Global News'', 2 July 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-news-2015/january-2015-air-force-military-aviation-defence-industry-news/1420-boeing-delivered-ch-147f-chinook-maintenance-trainer-to-the-royal-canadian-air-force.html "Boeing delivered CH-147F Chinook Maintenance Trainer to the Royal Canadian Air Force."] ''Global News'', 13 January 2015.</ref>


==Leased and contractor aircraft==
*'''[[CFB Borden|16 Wing Borden]]'''
The Canadian Forces have leased aircraft from vendors to help transport troops and equipment from Canada and other locations in the past decade. Transport aircraft have been leased as required.
: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".


;[[Beechcraft Super King Air|Beechcraft B200 Super King Air]]
*'''[[CFB Winnipeg|17 Wing Winnipeg]]'''
* Two aircraft leased from Aero Support Canada Inc.. Used by the Multi-Engine Utility Flight (MEUF) out of [[CFB Trenton]]. Flown by RCAF pilots, they are used for light transport of personnel and equipment within North America.
:Comprised of three squadrons and six schools, 17 Wing also provides support to the Central Flying School.


;[[Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet|Dornier Alpha Jet Type A]]
*'''[[CFB Comox|19 Wing Comox]]'''
* Twelve civil aircraft are operated by [[Discovery Air Defence Services]] for CATS (Contracted Airborne Training Services) and are based at [[CFB Bagotville]]; ex-[[Luftwaffe]] trainers
: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.


;[[Hawker Hunter|Hawker Hunter F.58]]
*'''[[CFB North Bay|22 Wing North Bay]]'''
* Twelve civil aircraft are operated by Lortie Aviation, formerly Northern Lights International Airlines Ltd.. Based out of [[CFB Cold Lake]];<ref name="test">[http://www.lortieaviation.com/ "Tactical combat training provided to the armed forces of Canada, France and the United States."] ''Lortie Aviation.'' Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref> ex-[[Swiss Air Force]] jets
: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.


==Weapons and other equipment==
Former units includes:
Weapons systems are used by the CF-18 Hornet, CP-140 Aurora, CH-146 Griffon and the CH-124 Sea King helicopters (the latter to be replaced by CH-148 Cyclone).
{| class="wikitable"
! Manufacturer
! Origin
! Weapon
! Type
! In Service
! Notes
|-
| [[Lockheed Martin]]
| US
| [[GBU-10 Paveway II]] (12, 16 and 24)
| [[laser-guided]] [[bomb]]
| 1980s
| used by CF-18
|-
| {{nobreak|[[General Dynamics]]}}
| US
| [[Mark 82 bomb]]
| low drag [[general-purpose bomb]] (500&nbsp;lb)
| 1970s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[General Dynamics]]
| US
| [[Mark 83 bomb]]
| low drag [[general-purpose bomb]] (1,000&nbsp;lb)
| 1980s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[General Dynamics]]
| US
| [[Mark 84 bomb]]
| low drag [[general-purpose bomb]] (2,000&nbsp;lb)
| 1980s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Boeing]]
| US
| [[Joint Direct Attack Munition]]<ref>[http://www.cefcom-comfec.forces.gc.ca/pa-ap/fs-ev/2011/10/27-eng.asp "CF-188 Hornets on Op MOBILE drop first JDAM bombs."] ''Forces.gc.'' Retrieved: 2 February 2012.</ref>
| a kit to convert a regular bomb into [[precision-guided munition]]
| 2011
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Raytheon]]/[[Hughes Aircraft|Hughes]]
| US
| [[AGM-65 Maverick|AGM-65G Maverick Missile]]
| [[air-to-surface missile]]
| 1990s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Bristol Aerospace|Bristol]]
| Canada
| [[CRV7|CRV 7 Rocket]]
| folding-fin ground attack [[rocket]]
| 1970s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Douglas Aircraft Company|Douglas]]
| US
| [[AIM-7 Sparrow]]
| medium-range [[semi-active radar homing]] [[air-to-air missile]]
| 1980s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Raytheon]]/[[Hughes Aircraft|Hughes]]
| US
| [[AIM-120 AMRAAM]]
| [[Beyond Visual Range missile|Beyond Visual Range (BVR)]] [[air-to-air missile|air-to-air]] [[missile]]
| 2000s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Raytheon]]/[[Ford Aerospace|Ford]]/<br>[[Loral Corp.]]
| US
| [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]]
| [[Infrared homing|heat-seeking]], short-range, [[air-to-air missile]]
| 1980s
| used by CF-18
|-
| {{nobreak|[[General Dynamics]]/}}<br>[[General Electric]]
| US
| [[M61 Vulcan|M61 20mm Vulcan cannon]]
| air-cooled [[gatling gun|gatling-style cannon]]
| 1980s
| used by CF-18
|-
| [[Alliant Techsystems|Alliant]]
| US
| [[Mark 46 torpedo]]
| air and ship-launched lightweight torpedo
| 1970s
| used by CP-140 Aurora and CH-124 Sea King (but not by CP-140A Arcturus)
|-
| [[FN Herstal]]
| Belgium
| [[FN MAG]] C6
| 7.62&nbsp;mm self-defence machine gun
| 1980s
| used by CH-124 Sea King, CH-146 Griffon and CH-147 Chinook; likely to be used by Cyclones
|}


{| class="wikitable"
*'''[[CFB Toronto|2 Wing Toronto]]'''
! Manufacturer
! Origin
! Name
! Type
! In Service
! Notes
|-
| Systems & Electronics, Inc.<!-- (West Plains, Mo)-->
| US
| 60K Tunner
| material handling equipment
| 2008
| used with CC-177 transport
|-
| JBT AeroTech
| US
| Halvorsen 44K Loaders
| [[Truck Aircraft Side Load Unload]] (TASLU) Loader
| 2008
| 4 for use with CC-177; licensed from Static Engineering of Australia
|-
|
|
|
| [[Arresting gear|Mobile Arrestor Gear]]
|
|
|-
| [[FMC Corp.]]
| US
| B-1200
| aircraft towing tractor
| 2008
| used to tow CC-177 and CC-130
|}


==Retired weapons==
*'''6 Wing''' - information N/A
{| class="wikitable"
! Weapon
! Country of manufacture
! Type
! In service
! #
|-
| [[CIM-10 Bomarc|CIM-10 Bomarc-B]]
| USA
| supersonic missile equipped with a 10&nbsp;kt [[W40 (nuclear warhead)]]
| 1962 to 1972
| N/A
|-
| [[AIR-2 Genie]]
| USA
| air-to-air rocket with a 1.5&nbsp;kt [[W25 (nuclear warhead)]].
| 1965 to 1984
| N/A
|-
| [[CBU-100 Cluster Bomb|MK-20 "Rockeye"]]
| USA
| cluster bomb
| 1980s to 1997<ref>[http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/news-nouvelles/view-news-afficher-nouvelles-eng.asp?id=1439 "Disposal of Rockeye Cluster Bombs at CFAD Dundurn."] ''National Defence and the Canadian Forces,'' 27 July 2004. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref>
| ~1000
|}


==Current structure==
*'''[[RCAF Station Uplands|7 Wing Ottawa]]'''
The [[commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force]], located at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, commands and provides strategic direction to the Air Force.
The commander of [[1 Canadian Air Division]] and Canadian NORAD Region, based in Winnipeg, is responsible for the operational command and control of Air Force activities throughout Canada and worldwide. 2 Canadian Air Division, established in June 2009, consists of training establishments.


There are 13 [[Wing (military aviation unit)|wing]]s across Canada, 11 operational and 2 used for training. Wings represent the grouping of various [[Squadron (aviation)|squadron]]s, 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.
*'''10 Wing''' - information N/A


The rank of general is held when an [[air officer]] is serving as [[Chief of the Defence Staff (Canada)|Chief of the Defence Staff]].
*'''11 Wing''' - information N/A
The Chief of the Air Force Staff holds the rank of lieutenant-general.
Divisions are commanded by major-generals.
Brigadier-generals are typically second-in-command of a division.
Wings are commanded by colonels.
Squadrons are commanded by lieutenant-colonels.
Majors are typically second-in-command of squadrons, or flight commanders.
Captains, lieutenants and second lieutenants are the junior level leaders in RCAF squadrons and headquarters.


=== 1 Canadian Air Division ===
*'''13 Wing''' - information N/A
; [[1 Wing Kingston]]
: Headquartered at CFB Kingston, 1 Wing provides airlift support of troops and equipment anywhere in the world. Its tactical helicopter squadrons are spread out across Canada; six operate the [[CH-146 Griffon]] helicopter and one operates the [[CH-147]]F Chinook helicopter.
:* [[400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] (based out of [[CFB Borden]], Ontario)
:* [[403 Helicopter Operational Training Squadron]] (based out of [[CFB Gagetown]], New Brunswick)
:* [[408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] (based out of [[CFB Edmonton]], Alberta)
:* [[427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron]] (based out of [[CFB Petawawa]], Ontario)
:* [[430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] (based out of [[CFB Valcartier]], Quebec)
:* [[438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] (based out of [[Montréal/Saint-Hubert Airport]], Quebec)
:* [[450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] (based out of [[CFB Petawawa]], Ontario)
; [[3 Wing Bagotville]]
: Located in Quebec's [[Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean|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.
:* 3 Air Maintenance Squadron
:* [[No. 414 Squadron RCAF|414 Electronic Warfare Support Squadron]] (based out of [[Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport|Gatineau Airport]], Quebec, to operate the [[Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet]] provided by [[Discovery Air Defence Services]])
:* [[425 Tactical Fighter Squadron]]
:* [[433 Tactical Fighter Squadron]]
:* [[439 Combat Support Squadron]]
; [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
: 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]]. [[CFB Cold Lake#History|Cold Lake Air Weapons Range]] (CLAWR), north of the base, is the only tactical bombing range in western Canada. The one million hectare (11,600 square km) range includes the Primrose Lake Evaluation Range, 4 Wing's primary test range.<ref>[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/4w-4e/page-eng.asp?id=373 "Cold Lake Air Weapons Range."] ''National Defence Canada: 4 Wing Cold Lake'' . Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref>
:* 1 Air Maintenance Squadron
:* [[No. 401 Squadron RCAF|401 Tactical Fighter Squadron]]
:* [[409 Tactical Fighter Squadron]]
:* [[410 Tactical Fighter Operational Training Squadron]]
:* [[417 Combat Support Squadron]]
:* [[419 Tactical Fighter Training Squadron]]
:* Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment
; [[5 Wing Goose Bay]][[File:5 Wing Goose Bay.jpg|right|thumb|250px|5 Wing Goose Bay]]
: The site of [[NATO]] tactical [[Terrain-following radar|ultra-low-level flight]] training in Canada, 5 Wing, located in [[Labrador]], hosts temporary detachments from several NATO nations. Goose Bay Weapons Range is the only tactical bombing range in eastern Canada. The thirteen million hectare (130,000 square km) range includes ultra-low-level flying training to 100 feet above ground level, supersonic flight areas, and an inert conventional and precision guided (laser) munitions bombing range. 5 Wing is the home of 444 Combat Support Squadron and serves as a [[NORAD]] CF-18 Hornet deployed operating base and airfield supporting a mix of aviation activities, military and civilian, in eastern Canada.<ref>[http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/itp-pfi/goosebay/page-eng.asp?id=1006 "Goose Bay The Freedom to Fly."] ''National Defence Canada: 5 Wing Goose Bay'' . Retrieved: 16 May 2012.</ref>
:* [[444 Combat Support Squadron]]
; [[8 Wing Trenton]]
: 8 Wing is 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 [[Skyhawks Parachute Team]] with the [[Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Centre]].
:* [[8 Air Maintenance Squadron]]
:* [[412 Transport Squadron]] (based out of [[Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport]], Ontario)
:* [[424 Transport and Rescue Squadron]]
:* [[426 Transport Training Squadron]]
:* [[429 Transport Squadron]]
:* [[436 Transport Squadron]]
:* [[437 Transport Squadron]]
:* Canadian Forces Aerospace Warfare Centre (CFAWC)[[File:First responders near Royal Canadian Air Force CC-17 177703.jpg|thumb|right|A Canadian CC-177 Globemaster III on the tarmac in [[New Orleans, Louisiana]], assisting in the evacuation during [[Hurricane Gustav]].]]
; [[9 Wing Gander]]
: Providing search and rescue (SAR) services to eastern Canada and the western Atlantic Ocean. SAR crews at 9 Wing Gander fly the [[AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant]] helicopter and are responsible for a huge area, covering the lower [[Arctic]], [[Labrador]], [[Newfoundland (island)|Newfoundland]], the [[Maritimes]] and the North Atlantic from the shores of Newfoundland to 30° west.
:* [[103 Search and Rescue Squadron]]
; [[12 Wing Shearwater]]
: The centre of naval aviation in Canada, 12 Wing operates [[CH-124 Sea King]] helicopters, and supports the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] with helicopter air detachments for surface warships in the Atlantic and Pacific fleets.
:* 12 Air Maintenance Squadron
:* [[406 Maritime Operational Training Squadron]]
:* [[423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron]]
:* [[443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron]] (based out of [[Victoria International Airport]] in Patricia Bay, BC)
; [[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 SAR capabilities for the Maritimes, eastern Quebec and the eastern Arctic are provided by CH-149 Cormorant helicopters and CC-130 Hercules fixed-wing aircraft.
:* 14 Air Maintenance Squadron
:* [[404 Maritime Patrol and Training Squadron]]
:* [[405 Maritime Patrol Squadron]]
:* [[413 Transport and Rescue Squadron]]
; [[17 Wing Winnipeg]]
: Comprising three squadrons and six schools, 17 Wing also provides support to the Central Flying School, as well as headquarters and administration support for NORAD operations.
:* [[402 Squadron|402 City of Winnipeg Squadron]]
:* [[435 Transport and Rescue Squadron]]
:* [[440 Transport Squadron]] (based out of [[Yellowknife]], NT)
; [[19 Wing Comox]]
: Located on [[Vancouver Island]], its Aurora crews provide surveillance of the Pacific Ocean and western and Arctic regions. The Buffalo and Cormorant crews are responsible for search and rescue in British Columbia, Yukon and the North Pacific Ocean. The base is also used for training fighter pilots in tactical procedures on nearby ranges.
:* 19 Air Maintenance Squadron
:* [[407 Long Range Patrol Squadron]]
:* [[442 Transport and Rescue Squadron]]
; [[22 Wing North Bay]]
: 22 Wing represents one of Canada's major contributions to the North American Aerospace Defence (NORAD) agreement. Personnel watch over Canada's airspace 24 hours a day, using state-of-the-art sensors, computer and communications equipment.
:* [[21 Aerospace Control and Warning Squadron]] is the unit in CADS that carries out the air sovereignty of Canada.
:* [[51 Aerospace Control and Warning Operational Training Squadron]]


=== 2 Canadian Air Division ===
*'''18 Wing Edmonton''' - information N/A
2 Canadian Air Division is commanded by Brigadier-General Bruce Ploughman.<ref>[http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/news/article.page?doc=new-commander-for-2-canadian-air-division/hl94dxgr "New Commander for 2 Canadian Air Division."] ''Department of National Defence'', 6 November 2013.</ref> From 2011 to 2013 the commanding officer was Brigadier-General Martin Galvin.<ref>[http://www.ngnews.ca/News/Local/2011-07-13/article-2651982/Pictou-County-man-new-commander-of-Air-Division,-Winnipeg/1 "Pictou County man new commander of Air Division, Winnipeg."] ''The News,'' 13 July 2011. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref> The initial announcement of the Division, published after it was created on June 25, 2009, said:<ref>[http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/16w-16e/nr-sp/index-eng.asp?id=8922 2 Canadian Air Division Stands Up]{{dead link|date=January 2014}}</ref>
<blockquote>Brigadier-General Rick Pitre assumed command of the Canadian Force’s most recent formation, the newly established 2 Canadian Air Division/Air Force Doctrine and Training Division in a formal ceremony at 17 Wing, Winnipeg on Thursday, June 25. The Air Force has embarked on what Brig. Gen. Pitre calls “a new and exciting chapter in our rich air force history.” Commander 2 Canadian Air Division is now responsible for all Air Force doctrine, individual training and education. In addition to the Canadian Aerospace Warfare Centre located at 8 Wing Trenton, Brigadier General Pitre will oversee the conduct and management of training establishments at:15 Wing Moose Jaw, 16 Wing Borden, and a new Air Force Training Centre comprising several Air Force schools and training institutions In addition, he will have oversight of training conducted by the Prairie Cadet Region.</blockquote>


; [[15 Wing Moose Jaw]]
*'''20 Wing''' - information N/A
: The site of the NATO Flying Training Program in Canada which is supported by [[2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School]] (2CFFTS), 15 Wing is also home to the [[Snowbirds]], the air force's aerobatic team.
:* [[431 Air Demonstration Squadron]]
; [[16 Wing Borden]]
: This base is the location of the largest training facility in the Canadian Forces. 16 Wing's schools provide air force technical training and professional development and is the historic birthplace of the RCAF. 400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron is a lodger unit based at Borden's airfield.


===Other units===
*'''21 Wing''' - information N/A
;Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering
:The [[Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering]] (CFSATE), located in [[Borden, Ontario]], delivers Aerospace Engineering Officers and conducts apprentice level training for various trades, including [[Avionics]], [[Aviation]], Aircraft Structures and Imagery technicians. The role of CFSATE is to provide the Air Force with qualified personnel to ensure Aircraft serviceability. CFSATE develops and carries out individual aerospace engineering training in accordance with approved doctrine and standards.<ref name=rockymountainrangers>[http://www.rockymountainrangers.ca/?p=eductraining "Overview."] ''Rocky Mountain Rangers.'' Retrieved: 26 September 2011.</ref>


==Squadrons==
===Former units===
* [[CFB Toronto|2 Wing Toronto]] – closed 1996; part of the base is now 4th Canadian Division HQ
The following squadrons are currently active with the Canadian Forces and their assigned Wing.
* [[RCAF Station Uplands|7 Wing Ottawa]] – closed 1995
* 18 Wing Edmonton: Located in [[Edmonton, Alberta]], it was the base for 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, 418 "City of Edmonton" Air Reserve Squadron, 435 Transport Squadron, 440 Transport and Rescue Squadron and 447 Transport Helicopter Squadron. It closed in 1994 and transferred to [[Land Force Command]] as army base [[CFB Edmonton]], where 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron is the sole remaining air unit.<ref>[http://www.army-armee.forces.gc.ca/en/cfb-edmonton/index.page "Canadian Forces Base Edmonton – Canadian Army."] ''forces.gc.ca''. Retrieved: 11 April 2015.</ref>


==== Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing ====
* [[12 Radar Squadron/12ième Escadron de radar]] - 3 Wing Bagotville
* Air Wing Kandahar, Afghanistan (stood up 6 December 2008, flew first mission 6 January 2009). The organization was composed of four units:
* [[103 Search and Rescue Squadron]] - 9 Wing Gander
* [[400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
** Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan):
*** Six – CH-147D Chinook heavy-lift helicopters
* [[402 Squadron Navigation School Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
*** Eight – CH-146 Griffon tactical support helicopters – armed
* [[403 Squadron Helicopter Operational Training Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
*** (Six – Mi-8 medium-lift helicopters – see below)
* [[404 Squadron Maritime Patrol and Training Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
** Theatre Support Element
* [[405 Squadron Maritime Patrol Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
*** CC-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft;
* [[No. 406 Squadron RCAF|406 Squadron Maritime Operational Training Squadron]] - 12 Wing Shearwater
** Canadian Heron UAV Detachment
* [[407 Squadron Maritime Patrol Squadron]] - 19 Wing Comox
*** Heron unmanned aerial vehicle
* [[408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron|408 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston

* [[No. 409 Squadron RCAF|409 Tactical Figther Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
As the tasking authority responsible for the Canadian Contracted Air Transport Unit, the wing commander provided advice, co-ordination and supervision over its six leased Mi-8 medium lift helicopters. The air wing had about 450 personnel, serving with the Theatre Support Element in the Persian Gulf region and the Tactical UAV Flight at Kandahar Airfield. The wing officially stood down on 18 August 2011.
* [[410 Squadron Tactical Fighter Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake

* [[412 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
[[File:Canadian Forces CH Pilot.jpg|thumb|Canadian Forces pilot adjusts a CH-147 helicopter]]
* [[No. 413 Squadron RCAF|413 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood

* [[416 Squadron Tactical Fighter Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
==Rank structure==
* [[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
===Commander-in-Chief===
* [[423 Squadron Maritime Helicopter Squadron]] - 12 Wing Shearwater
{| style="border:thin solid darkgray; padding:0.2em;"
* [[424 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
|- style="background:#ddd;"
* [[425 Squadron Tactical Fighter Squadron]] - 3 Wing Bagotville
! Canada || Commander-in-chief
* [[426 Squadron Transport Training Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
|- align="center"
* [[427 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
|Insignia || [[File:GG(Air).PNG|200px]]
* [[430 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
|- align="center"
* [[Snowbirds|431 Squadron Air Demonstration Squadron]] - 15 Wing Moose Jaw
|Title || [[Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Forces|Commander-in-chief]]
* [[435 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
|- align="center"
* [[436 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
|| Abbreviation || C-in-C
* [[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
===Officers===
* [[440 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
{| style="border:thin solid darkgray; padding:0.2em;"
* [[441 Tactical Fighter Squadron CF|441 Squadron Tactical Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
|- style="background:#ddd;"
* [[No. 442 Squadron RCAF|442 Squadron Transport and Resuce Squadron]] - 19 Wing Comox
!NATO code||Student officer||OF-1||OF-1||OF-2||OF-3||OF-4||OF-5||OF-6||OF-7||OF-8||OF-9||OF-10
* [[443 Squadron Maritime Helicopter Squadron]] - 12 Wing Shearwater
|- align="center"
* [[444 Squadron Combat Support Squadron]] - 5 Wing Goose Bay
|Insignia
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-OCdt-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-2nd Lieutenant (OF1B)-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Lieutenant (OF1A)-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Captain (OF2)-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Major (OF3)-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Lieutenant Colonel (OF4)-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Colonel (OF5)-2015.svg|60px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-BGen-2015-Shoulder.svg|50px]]
<br/> [[File:CDN-Air Force-Brigadier General (OF6)-2015.svg|54px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-MGen-2015-Shoulder.svg|50px]]
<br/> [[File:CDN-Air Force-Major General (OF7)-2015.svg|54px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-LGen-2015-Shoulder.svg|50px]]
<br/> [[File:CDN-Air Force-Lieutenant General (OF8)-2015.svg|54px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Gen-2015-Shoulder.svg|50px]]
<br/> [[File:CDN-Air Force-General (OF9)-2015.svg|54px]]
|'''No equivalent'''
|- align="center"
|Title
| [[Officer Cadet (Canada)|Officer<br />Cadet]]
| [[Second Lieutenant (Canada)|Second<br />Lieutenant]]
| [[Lieutenant#Air force rank|Lieutenant]]
| [[Captain (Canadian army and air force)|Captain]]
| [[Major (Canada)|Major]]
| [[Lieutenant-Colonel (Canada)|Lieutenant-Colonel]]
| [[Colonel (Canada)|Colonel]]
| [[Brigadier-General#Canada|Brigadier-General]]
| [[Major-General#Canada|Major-General]]
| [[Lieutenant-General (Canada)|Lieutenant-General]]
| [[General (Canada)|General]]
|- align="center"
|Abbreviation||OCdt||2Lt||Lt||Capt||Maj||LCol||Col||BGen||MGen||LGen||Gen||
|}

===Non-commissioned members===
{| style="border:thin solid darkgray; padding:0.2em;"
|- style="background:#ddd;"
!NATO Code||OR-1||OR-2||OR-3||OR-4||OR-5||OR-6||OR-7||OR-8||OR-9
|- align="center"
|Insignia
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Pte (Basic).svg|50px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-Pte (Basic).svg|50px]]
| [[File:Cdn-Air Force-Avt(OR-3)-2015.svg|50px]]
| [[File:Cdn-Air Force-Cpl(OR-4)-2015.svg|50px]]
| [[File:Cdn-Air Force-MCpl(OR-5)-2015.svg|50px]]
| [[File:Cdn-Air Force-Sgtl(OR-6)-2015.svg|50px]]
| [[File:CDN-Air Force-WO.svg|50px]]
| [[File:Cdn-Air Force-MWO(OR-8)-2015.svg|50px]]
| [[File:Cdn-Air Force-CWO(OR-9).svg|50px]]
|- align="center"
|Title
| [[Private Recruit|Aviator<br />(recruit)]]
| [[Private Recruit|Aviator<br />(basic)]]
| [[Private Recruit|Aviator<br />(trained)]]
| [[Corporal#Canada|Corporal]]
| [[Master Corporal]]
| [[Sergeant#Canada|Sergeant]]
| [[Warrant Officer#Canada|Warrant Officer]]
| [[Master Warrant Officer]]
| [[Chief Warrant Officer]]
|- align=center
|Abbreviation||Avr(R)||Avr(B)||Avr(T)||Cpl||MCpl||Sgt||WO||MWO||CWO
|}


On 1 April 2015, the rank structure and insignia changed.<ref name="CTV News story">[http://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/new-royal-canadian-air-force-uniform-unveiled-1.2017526 "New Royal Canadian Air Force uniform unveiled."] ''CTV Ottawa''1 April 2015.</ref> The rank of private was replaced with that of aviator. The previously used term "[[leading aircraftman]]" was considered not to be gender neutral.<ref name="DND Backgrounder">[http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=886249 "DND Backgrounder."] ''news.gc.ca'', April 2015.</ref> Insignia was also changed from golden yellow to a pearl-grey colour similar to that worn before unification of Canada's Armed Forces in 1968.<ref name="DND Backgrounder"/> A revival of the former rank titles of the RCAF will not occur, however, as the former rank titles are considered "too confusing".<ref name="CTV News story"/> Instead, the current rank titles will be retained (with the exception of Aviator). The [[Royal Flying Corps]], considered to be a predecessor of the RCAF, used rank titles similar to the existing rank titles of the RCAF.<ref name="DND Backgrounder"/>
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.


==Recognition==
Further reorganization in 2006 will merge 416 Tactical Fighter Squadron and 441 Tactical Fighter Squadron -- the combined entity will be known as 409 Tactical Fighter Squadron.
On 9 November 1984, Canada Post issued "Air Force" as part of the Canadian Forces series. The stamps were designed by Ralph Tibbles, based on an illustration by William Southern. The 32¢ stamps are perforated 12 x 12.5 and were printed by Ashton-Potter Limited.<ref>[http://data4.collectionscanada.gc.ca/netacgi/nph-brs?s1=(military.A790,C790.)+Or+(null.B742.)&l=50&d=STMP&p=1&u=http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/archivianet/02011702_e.html&r=46&f=G&Sect1=STMP "Canada Post stamp."] ''Collections Canada.'' Retrieved: 23 October 2012.</ref>


==Roundels of the Royal Canadian Air Force==
==Aircraft deployments==
Roundels used from 1920 until 1945 were usually the same as [[Royal Air Force roundels]] although not all variations were used and colours were matched to locally available paints.
Maritime patrol aircraft are based at:
{{Gallery
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]] on the east coast
|Title= Roundels of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian Air Force
* [[19 Wing Comox]] on the west coast
|width=120
|height=120
|lines=2
|align=center
|File:RCAF-LowVis-Roundel.svg|current<br>lo-vis
|File:RCAF Centennial Roundel.svg|[[Canadian Centennial]]<br>1967 variant
|File:RCAF-Roundel.svg|1965–current
|File:Roundel of the Royal Canadian Air Force (1946-1965).svg|1946–1965
|File:RCAF Type1 Roundel.png|1945–1946
}}


==Badge of the Royal Canadian Air Force==
[[Search and rescue|SAR]] squadrons are based at:
* [[Gander International Airport|9 Wing Gander]] - [[103 Search and Rescue Squadron CFAC|103 Squadron]]
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]]
* [[8 Wing Trenton]]
* [[19 Wing Comox]]


The Badge of the Royal Canadian Air Force consists of:
Transport and utility helicopters are based at:
* [[CFB Borden]]
* [[CFB Gagetown]]
* [[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]]
* [[CFB Valcartier]]
* [[CFB Petawawa]]
* [[CFB Edmonton]]
* [[RCAF Station St Hubert]]
* [[3 Wing Bagotville]]
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]


* St. Edward's Crown
Transport and VIP aircraft are based at:
* Maple leaf Compartment
* [[8 Wing Trenton]]
* Eagle superimposed on a circlet
* [[CFB Winnipeg|17 Wing Winnipeg]]
* Motto ''Sic Itur Ad Astra'' (Such is the Pathway to the Stars)
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]]


== See also ==
Interceptor/tactical aircraft are based at:
{{Portal|Canadian Armed Forces}}
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
{{Wikipedia books|Canada}}
* [[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]].


* [[Planned Canadian Forces projects]]
Maritime helicopters are based at:
* [[Royal Canadian Air Force VIP aircraft]]
* [[12 Wing Shearwater]]
{{-}}
* [[Victoria International Airport|Patricia Bay]]


==References==
==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. <br><br>The Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division and Canadian NORAD Region, MGen J.J.C. (Charlie) Bouchard, [[Order of Military Merit (Canada)|OMM]], [[Canadian Forces Decoration|CD]], is based in Winnipeg. He is responsible for the operational command and control of Air Force activities throughout Canada and world-wide.


'''Notes'''
==Personnel==
{{Reflist}}
Regular Force personnel: 14,500<br>
Reserve Force: 2,600<br>
Civilians: 2,500


'''Bibliography'''
== References ==
{{Refbegin}}
<div class="references-small">
* [[W. A. B. Douglas|Douglas, W. A. B.]] ''The Creation of a National Air Force: Official History of the Royal Canadian Air Force, v. 2.'' Toronto: University of Toronto Press (in co-operation with the Department of National Defence), 1986. ISBN 0-8020-2584-6.
<references/>
* [[Larry Milberry|Milberry, Larry]], ed. ''Sixty Years: The RCAF and CF Air Command 1924–1984''. Toronto: Canav Books, 1984. ISBN 0-9690703-4-9.
</div>
* Piggott, Peter. ''Flying Canucks: Famous Canadian Aviators.'' Toronto: Hounslow Press, 1996. ISBN 0-88882-175-1.
* Piggott, Peter. ''Flying Canucks II: Pioneers of Canadian Aviation.'' Toronto: Hounslow Press, 1997. ISBN 0-88882-193-X.
{{Refend}}


==External links==
== External links ==
{{Commons category|Royal Canadian Air Force}}
*[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]
* {{Official website|http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/en/}}
* [http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=648 Canadian Air Force aircraft and equipment of Canada(Air recognition)]
*[http://army.ca Army.ca] - [[Army.ca]] is an online forum for discussion on the Canadian military establishment, including Air Force issues
* [http://www.canadianwings.com CanadianWings.com Unofficial Website about the Royal Canadian Air Force]
* [http://www.vintagewings.ca/VintageNews/Stories/tabid/116/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/382/Roundel-Round-Up.aspx "Roundel Round-Up" – Vintage Wings of Canada's history of British and Canadian roundel styles from 1914 through and into the 21st century]


{{Canadian Forces}}
==See also==
{{Canadian Forces Air Command}}
* [[List of active Canadian military aircraft]]
{{Current CF aircraft}}
{{Evolution of the Military of Canada}}
{{air forces}}


{{Authority control}}


[[Category:1924 establishments in Canada]]
{{Canadian Armed Forces}}
[[Category:Canadian Forces Air Command| ]]
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1924]]
[[Category:Organizations based in Canada with royal patronage]]
[[de:Canadian Forces Air Command]]
[[Category:Royal Canadian Air Force| ]]

Revision as of 19:10, 9 November 2015

"RCAF" redirects here. For other uses, see RCAF (disambiguation).
Royal Canadian Air Force
[Aviation royale canadienne] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)
Active 1 April 1924 – present
(100 years, 3 months)
Country Canada
AllegianceQueen Elizabeth II
TypeAir force
Role"To generate and maintain combat capable, multi-purpose, air forces to meet Canada's defence objectives."
SizeRegular Force personnel: 14,500
Reserve Force: 2,600
Civilians: 2,500[1]
Part ofCanadian Armed Forces
HeadquartersNational Defence Headquarters, Ottawa
Motto(s)[Sic itur ad astra] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)
"Such is the pathway to the stars"[2] [Per ardua ad astra] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help)
"Through adversity to the stars" – (1924 to 1968)
March"RCAF March Past"
AnniversariesArmed Forces Day (First Sunday of June)
EngagementsWorld War II
Korean War
Gulf War
Operation Deliberate Force
Kosovo War
War in Afghanistan
Intervention in Libya

Iraqi Insurgency

Syrian Civil War
Commanders
Commander-in-chiefCharles III, King of Canada, represented by Governor General, David Johnston
Commander of the Royal Canadian Air ForceLieutenant-General Michael Hood
Insignia
Ensign
Roundels
Fin flashesFin flash Low visibility fin flash
Aircraft flown
FighterCF-18 Hornet
HelicopterCH-124 Sea King, CH-139 JetRanger, CH-146 Griffon, CH-147 Chinook, CH-148 Cyclone, CH-149 Cormorant
PatrolCP-140 Aurora, CP-140A Arcturus
ReconnaissanceCU-170 Heron,
TrainerCT-114 Tutor, CT-142 Dash-8, CT-155 Hawk, CT-156 Harvard II
TransportCC-115 Buffalo, CC-130 Hercules, CC-130J Super Hercules, CC-138 Twin Otter, CC-144 Challenger, CC-150 Polaris, CC-177 Globemaster III

The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) (French: Aviation royale canadienne, ARC), formerly, formally the Canadian Forces Air Command (AIRCOM), is the air force of Canada. The RCAF is one of three environmental commands within the unified Canadian Armed Forces. As of 2013, operating 258 manned aircraft and 9 UAVs, the Royal Canadian Air Force consists of 14,500 Regular Force and 2,600 Primary Reserve personnel, supported by 2,500 civilians.[1][3] Lieutenant-General Michael J. Hood, CMM CD, is the current Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force and Chief of the Air Force Staff.

The Royal Canadian Air Force is responsible for all aircraft operations of the Canadian Forces, enforcing the security of Canada's airspace and providing aircraft to support the missions of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Army. The RCAF is a partner with the United States Air Force in protecting continental airspace under the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). The RCAF also provides all primary air resources to and is responsible for the National Search and Rescue Program.

The RCAF traces its history to the Canadian Air Force which was formed in 1920. The Canadian Air Force was incorporated in 1923 and granted royal sanction in 1924 by King George V.

In 1968 the RCAF was amalgamated with the Royal Canadian Navy, and the Canadian Army, as part of the unification of the Canadian Forces. Air units were split between several different commands: Air Defence Command (interceptors), Air Transport Command (airlift, search and rescue), Mobile Command (tactical fighters, helicopters), Maritime Command (anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrol), as well as Training Command.

In 1975 some commands were dissolved (ADC, ATC, TC), and all air units were placed under a new environmental command called simply Air Command (AIRCOM). Air Command reverted to its historic name the "Royal Canadian Air Force" in August 2011.[4] The Royal Canadian Air Force has served in the Second World War, the Korean War, the Persian Gulf War, as well as several United Nations peacekeeping missions and NATO operations. As a NATO member, the force maintained a presence in Europe during the second half of the 20th century.

History

Main article: History of the Royal Canadian Air Force

1920–68

The Canadian Air Force (CAF) was established in 1920 as the successor to a short-lived two-squadron Canadian Air Force formed during the First World War in Europe. The new Canadian Air Force was a branch of the Air Board and was chiefly a training militia that provided refresher training to veteran pilots.[5][6] Many CAF members also worked with the Air Board's Civil Operations Branch on operations that included forestry, surveying and anti-smuggling patrols.[7] In 1923, the CAF became responsible for all flying operations in Canada, including civil aviation. In 1924, the Canadian Air Force, was granted the royal title, becoming the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Most of its work was civil in nature; however, in the late 1920s the RCAF evolved into more of a military organization. After budget cuts in the early 1930s, the air force began to rebuild. During the Second World War the RCAF was a major contributor to the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and was involved in operations in Great Britain, Europe, the north Atlantic, north Africa, southern Asia, and with home defence. By the end of the war, the RCAF had become the fourth largest allied air force.[8]

After the war, the RCAF reduced its strength. Because of the rising Soviet threat to the security of Europe, Canada joined NATO in 1949, and the RCAF established No. 1 Air Division RCAF consisting of four wings with three fighter squadrons each, based in France and West Germany. In 1950, the RCAF became involved with the transport of troops and supplies to the Korean War; however, it did not provide RCAF combat units. Members of the RCAF served in USAF units as exchange officers and several flew in combat. At the same time, the Pinetree Line, the Mid-Canada Line and the DEW Line radar stations, largely operated by the RCAF, were built across Canada because of the growing Soviet nuclear threat. In 1957, Canada and the United States created the joint North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Coastal defence and peacekeeping also became priorities during the 1950s and 1960s.

1968–present

Badge of Air Command, replaced by new RCAF badge in 2013

In 1968 the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force and Canadian Army were amalgamated to form the unified Canadian Forces. This initiative was overseen by then Liberal Defence Minister, Paul Hellyer. The controversial merger maintained several existing organizations and created some new ones: In Europe, No. 1 Air Division, operated Canadair CF-104 Starfighter nuclear strike/attack and reconnaissance under NATO's 4 ATAF; Air Defence Command: operated McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo interceptors, CIM-10 Bomarc missiles and the SAGE radar system within NORAD; Air Transport Command: provided strategic airlift for the NATO and UN Peacekeeping missions; and Training Command. Aviation assets of the Royal Canadian Navy were combined with the RCAF Canadair CP-107 Argus long-range patrol aircraft under Maritime Command. In 1975, the different commands, and the scattered aviation assets, were consolidated under Air Command (AIRCOM).

In the early 1990s, Canada provided a detachment of CF-18 Hornets for the air defence mission in Operation Desert Shield. The force performed combat air patrols over operations in Kuwait and Iraq, undertook a number of air-to-ground bombing missions, and, on one occasion, attacked an Iraqi patrol boat in the Persian Gulf.

In the late 1990s, Air Command's CF-188 Hornets took part in the Operation Allied Force in Yugoslavia, and in the 2000s, AIRCOM was heavily involved in the Afghanistan War, transporting troops and assets to Kandahar. Later in the decade-long war, AIRCOM set up a purpose-specific air wing, Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing, equipped with several CH-146 Griffon and CH-147 Chinook helicopters, CC-130 Hercules and leased CU-170 Heron UAVs in support of the Canadian Forces and ISAF mission. The wing stood down on 18 August 2011.

From 18 March to 1 November 2011 the RCAF was engaged in Operation Mobile, Canada's contribution to Operation Unified Protector in Libya. Seven CF-18 Hornet fighter aircraft and several other aircraft served under Task Force Libeccio as part of the military intervention.

On 16 August 2011, the Government of Canada announced that the name "Air Command" was being changed to the air force's original historic name: Royal Canadian Air Force (along with the change of name of Maritime Command to Royal Canadian Navy and Land Force Command to Canadian Army). The change was made to better reflect Canada's military heritage and align Canada with other key Commonwealth countries whose military units use the royal designation.[9] The new RCAF adopted a new badge in 2013, which is similar to the pre-unification RCAF badge (although placed in the modern frame used for command badges). The Latin motto of Air Command – Sic itur ad astra – which was the motto of the Canadian Air Force when first formed after the First World War (before it became the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1924) was retained. There has been no restoration of the traditional uniforms or rank structure of the historical service.[10]

On 17 April 2014, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Canada is sending six CF-18s and military personnel to assist NATO in operations in Eastern Europe.[11]

Aircraft

CC-177 Globemaster III
Main article: List of aircraft of the Royal Canadian Air Force (current inventory only)
Main article: List of aircraft of Canada's air forces (complete inventory including retired types)

The Royal Canadian Air Force has approximately 391 aircraft in service, which is the sixth largest air force in the Americas, after the United States Air Force, United States Navy, United States Army, United States Marine Corps and Brazilian Air Force.

Fixed-wing

Airbus CC-150 Polaris
Second-hand Airbus A310 transports purchased in 1992 for use as a strategic transports and air-to-air tankers to replace the Boeing CC-137. Two have been converted to tankers and are designated the CC-150T. One is permanently configured for VIP transport; five aircraft operated by 437 Squadron based at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario.
BAe CT-155 Hawk
Single-engined lead-in fighter trainer leased in 2000. 16 aircraft in service, based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, SK and 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta.
Beechcraft King Air C-90B
Multi-engine training aircraft. Leased to RCAF by Allied Wings, 7 aircraft are based at Portage la Prairie, MB.
Boeing CC-177 Globemaster III
Five strategic airlifters operated by 429 (T) Squadron based at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario. Four were delivered in 2007 and 2008, a fifth was delivered in 2015.[12]
Bombardier CC-144 Challenger
Utility and VIP transport aircraft first delivered in 1982. Early Challenger 600 and 601 models were supplemented by 604 models in 2002. Six operated by 412(T) Sqn and based in Ottawa, but belong to 8 Wing Trenton.
Canadair CT-114 Tutor
Entered service in 1962 as a basic and advanced jet trainer with 190 originally ordered, replaced by the CT-156 Harvard II and CT-155 Hawk in 2000. A total of 24 remain in service used by 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, "The Snowbirds".
DHC CC-115 Buffalo
A Twin-engined utility/cargo transport now used for search and rescue. Six used by 442 Transport and Rescue Sqn. at 19 Wing Comox, BC.
A CF-18 Hornet fires an AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missile at a MQM-107E Streaker aerial target drone during a "Combat Archer" mission
DHC CC-138 Twin Otter
A twin-engined utility transport operated since the 1970s, Four remain based at Yellowknife, NT.
DHC CT-142 Dash 8
Twin-engined converted regional airliner entered service in 1987 as an aerial navigation and tactics trainer, Four are operated by 402 "City of Winnipeg" Sqn and stationed at 17 Wing, Winnipeg, MB
Grob 120A
Single engine primary trainer used to train pilot candidates before they move onto the Harvard II. Leased to RCAF by Allied Wings, 11 aircraft are based at Portage la Prairie, MB.
CC-130H Hercules on approach to Winnipeg Airport
Lockheed CC-130E/H Hercules
Four-engined tactical transport. Several versions have been operated since 1960. Remaining CC-130Hs used for search and rescue and air-to-air refuelling. 23 aircraft remain in service, five of which have been converted to air-to-air tankers. Based at 14 Wing Greenwood, NS, 8 Wing Trenton, ON and 17 Wing, Winnipeg, MB.
Lockheed CP-140 Aurora
Four-engined maritime patrol aircraft based on the American Lockheed P-3 Orion; entered service in 1980 and now based at 19 Wing Comox, BC and 14 Wing Greenwood, NS
Lockheed Martin CC-130J Super Hercules
Four-engined tactical airlifter replacing earlier Hercules variants in that role.[13] A total of 17 are in service operated by 436 (T) Squadron based at 8 Wing Trenton.[14]
McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet
Fighter entered service in 1982 when 98 single-seat CF-18As and 40 two-seat CF-18Bs were ordered. Seventeen have been lost since 1984.[15] Stationed at 3 Wing Bagotville, Quebec and 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta; 77 CF-18s remain in active service.[16]
Raytheon CT-156 Harvard II
Single-engined trainer leased from 2000 to replace the Canadair CT-114 Tutor. 25 aircraft based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, SK

Rotary wing

Bell CH-139 JetRanger
Single-engined utility and training helicopter. Ordered for 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School at CFB Portage la Prairie, MB; used by Regular Forces in CFB Lahr in Germany and in Canada during the 1980s; replaced by CH-146 Griffons. 12 aircraft remain, leased from Allied Wings, used for flight training in Portage la Prairie, MB.
Bell CH-146 Griffon
A utility transport tactical helicopter (UTTH) that entered service between 1995 and 1997. Original purchase of 100 aircraft to replace the CH-136 Kiowa (Bell 206), CH-135 Twin Huey (Bell 212), CH-118 Iroquois (Bell 205), and Boeing C-Model Chinooks CH-47C. Based at Bagotville, Quebec (439 Squadron), St. Hubert, Quebec (438 Squadron), Cold Lake, Alberta (417 Squadron), Gagetown, New Brunswick (403 Squadron), Valcartier, Quebec (430 Squadron), Goose Bay, Newfoundland (444 Squadron), Edmonton, Alberta (408 Squadron), Petawawa, Ontario (427 Squadron) and Borden, Ontario (400 Squadron); also perform search and rescue duties at 8 Wing Trenton (424 Squadron). Deployed to Afghanistan to provide escorts for the Chinooks, armed with a combination of 7.62mm C-6 machine gun, 7.62mm Dillon Aero M134D Gatling gun, and GAU-21 .50 caliber machine gun on one or both doors.[17][18][19] 9 ex-RCAF Griffons, designated CT-146, are leased from Allied Wings for pilot training at Portage la Prairie, MB.
CH-124 Sea King
A Soviet Tupolev Tu-95 Bear-H bomber being escorted by a CF-18A Hornet in 1987
Sikorsky CH-124 Sea King
A ship-based transport/anti-submarine helicopter that entered service between 1963 and 1969. Based at 12 Wing Shearwater (406 & 423 Squadrons), NS and Patricia Bay (443 Squadron), BC and due to be replaced by the Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone.
AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant
Triple-engined search and rescue helicopter that replaced the CH-113 Labrador. Fourteen delivered between 2000 and 2002. Based at (103 Squadron) 9 Wing Gander, Newfoundland, (413 Squadron) 14 Wing Greenwood, Nova Scotia and (442 Squadron) 19 Wing Comox, British Columbia. One aircraft has been lost in a training accident.
Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone
Ship-based transport/anti-submarine helicopter based on the Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk. Twenty-eight ordered to replace the Sea King from 2009. Delays pushed the delivery date to 2015 when six were delivered. They are expected to enter service in 2016.
Boeing CH-147F Chinook
The CH-147F Chinook is an advanced, multi-mission, medium to heavy-lift helicopter. Its primary mission is the tactical transport of equipment and personnel during domestic or deployed operations. 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, under the command of 1 Wing Kingston, Ont., and based in CFB Petawawa, Ont., was re-established as the home of Canadaʼs fleet of 15 CH-147F Chinooks. The first two airframes underwent intensive operational test and evaluation in the United States for several months before Canada received the first airframe 147303 at an official acceptance ceremony at the Ottawa International Airport on 27 June 2013.[20][21][22]

Leased and contractor aircraft

The Canadian Forces have leased aircraft from vendors to help transport troops and equipment from Canada and other locations in the past decade. Transport aircraft have been leased as required.

Beechcraft B200 Super King Air
  • Two aircraft leased from Aero Support Canada Inc.. Used by the Multi-Engine Utility Flight (MEUF) out of CFB Trenton. Flown by RCAF pilots, they are used for light transport of personnel and equipment within North America.
Dornier Alpha Jet Type A
Hawker Hunter F.58
  • Twelve civil aircraft are operated by Lortie Aviation, formerly Northern Lights International Airlines Ltd.. Based out of CFB Cold Lake;[23] ex-Swiss Air Force jets

Weapons and other equipment

Weapons systems are used by the CF-18 Hornet, CP-140 Aurora, CH-146 Griffon and the CH-124 Sea King helicopters (the latter to be replaced by CH-148 Cyclone).

Manufacturer Origin Weapon Type In Service Notes
Lockheed Martin US GBU-10 Paveway II (12, 16 and 24) laser-guided bomb 1980s used by CF-18
General Dynamics US Mark 82 bomb low drag general-purpose bomb (500 lb) 1970s used by CF-18
General Dynamics US Mark 83 bomb low drag general-purpose bomb (1,000 lb) 1980s used by CF-18
General Dynamics US Mark 84 bomb low drag general-purpose bomb (2,000 lb) 1980s used by CF-18
Boeing US Joint Direct Attack Munition[24] a kit to convert a regular bomb into precision-guided munition 2011 used by CF-18
Raytheon/Hughes US AGM-65G Maverick Missile air-to-surface missile 1990s used by CF-18
Bristol Canada CRV 7 Rocket folding-fin ground attack rocket 1970s used by CF-18
Douglas US AIM-7 Sparrow medium-range semi-active radar homing air-to-air missile 1980s used by CF-18
Raytheon/Hughes US AIM-120 AMRAAM Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile 2000s used by CF-18
Raytheon/Ford/
Loral Corp. 		US AIM-9 Sidewinder heat-seeking, short-range, air-to-air missile 1980s used by CF-18
General Dynamics/
General Electric 		US M61 20mm Vulcan cannon air-cooled gatling-style cannon 1980s used by CF-18
Alliant US Mark 46 torpedo air and ship-launched lightweight torpedo 1970s used by CP-140 Aurora and CH-124 Sea King (but not by CP-140A Arcturus)
FN Herstal Belgium FN MAG C6 7.62 mm self-defence machine gun 1980s used by CH-124 Sea King, CH-146 Griffon and CH-147 Chinook; likely to be used by Cyclones
Manufacturer Origin Name Type In Service Notes
Systems & Electronics, Inc. US 60K Tunner material handling equipment 2008 used with CC-177 transport
JBT AeroTech US Halvorsen 44K Loaders Truck Aircraft Side Load Unload (TASLU) Loader 2008 4 for use with CC-177; licensed from Static Engineering of Australia
Mobile Arrestor Gear
FMC Corp. US B-1200 aircraft towing tractor 2008 used to tow CC-177 and CC-130

Retired weapons

Weapon Country of manufacture Type In service #
CIM-10 Bomarc-B USA supersonic missile equipped with a 10 kt W40 (nuclear warhead) 1962 to 1972 N/A
AIR-2 Genie USA air-to-air rocket with a 1.5 kt W25 (nuclear warhead). 1965 to 1984 N/A
MK-20 "Rockeye" USA cluster bomb 1980s to 1997[25] ~1000

Current structure

The commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, located at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, commands and provides strategic direction to the Air Force. The commander of 1 Canadian Air Division and Canadian NORAD Region, based in Winnipeg, is responsible for the operational command and control of Air Force activities throughout Canada and worldwide. 2 Canadian Air Division, established in June 2009, consists of training establishments.

There are 13 wings across Canada, 11 operational and 2 used for training. 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 rank of general is held when an air officer is serving as Chief of the Defence Staff. The Chief of the Air Force Staff holds the rank of lieutenant-general. Divisions are commanded by major-generals. Brigadier-generals are typically second-in-command of a division. Wings are commanded by colonels. Squadrons are commanded by lieutenant-colonels. Majors are typically second-in-command of squadrons, or flight commanders. Captains, lieutenants and second lieutenants are the junior level leaders in RCAF squadrons and headquarters.

1 Canadian Air Division

1 Wing Kingston
Headquartered at CFB Kingston, 1 Wing provides airlift support of troops and equipment anywhere in the world. Its tactical helicopter squadrons are spread out across Canada; six operate the CH-146 Griffon helicopter and one operates the CH-147F Chinook helicopter.
3 Wing Bagotville
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.
4 Wing Cold Lake
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. Cold Lake Air Weapons Range (CLAWR), north of the base, is the only tactical bombing range in western Canada. The one million hectare (11,600 square km) range includes the Primrose Lake Evaluation Range, 4 Wing's primary test range.[26]
5 Wing Goose Bay
5 Wing Goose Bay
The site of NATO tactical ultra-low-level flight training in Canada, 5 Wing, located in Labrador, hosts temporary detachments from several NATO nations. Goose Bay Weapons Range is the only tactical bombing range in eastern Canada. The thirteen million hectare (130,000 square km) range includes ultra-low-level flying training to 100 feet above ground level, supersonic flight areas, and an inert conventional and precision guided (laser) munitions bombing range. 5 Wing is the home of 444 Combat Support Squadron and serves as a NORAD CF-18 Hornet deployed operating base and airfield supporting a mix of aviation activities, military and civilian, in eastern Canada.[27]
8 Wing Trenton
8 Wing is 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 Skyhawks Parachute Team with the Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Centre.
9 Wing Gander
Providing search and rescue (SAR) services to eastern Canada and the western Atlantic Ocean. SAR crews at 9 Wing Gander fly the AgustaWestland CH-149 Cormorant helicopter and are responsible for a huge area, covering the lower Arctic, Labrador, Newfoundland, the Maritimes and the North Atlantic from the shores of Newfoundland to 30° west.
12 Wing Shearwater
The centre of naval aviation in Canada, 12 Wing operates CH-124 Sea King helicopters, and supports the Royal Canadian Navy with helicopter air detachments for surface warships in the Atlantic and Pacific fleets.
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 SAR capabilities for the Maritimes, eastern Quebec and the eastern Arctic are provided by CH-149 Cormorant helicopters and CC-130 Hercules fixed-wing aircraft.
17 Wing Winnipeg
Comprising three squadrons and six schools, 17 Wing also provides support to the Central Flying School, as well as headquarters and administration support for NORAD operations.
19 Wing Comox
Located on Vancouver Island, its Aurora crews provide surveillance of the Pacific Ocean and western and Arctic regions. The Buffalo and Cormorant crews are responsible for search and rescue in British Columbia, Yukon and the North Pacific Ocean. The base is also used for training fighter pilots in tactical procedures on nearby ranges.
22 Wing North Bay
22 Wing represents one of Canada's major contributions to the North American Aerospace Defence (NORAD) agreement. Personnel watch over Canada's airspace 24 hours a day, using state-of-the-art sensors, computer and communications equipment.

2 Canadian Air Division

2 Canadian Air Division is commanded by Brigadier-General Bruce Ploughman.[28] From 2011 to 2013 the commanding officer was Brigadier-General Martin Galvin.[29] The initial announcement of the Division, published after it was created on June 25, 2009, said:[30]

Brigadier-General Rick Pitre assumed command of the Canadian Force’s most recent formation, the newly established 2 Canadian Air Division/Air Force Doctrine and Training Division in a formal ceremony at 17 Wing, Winnipeg on Thursday, June 25. The Air Force has embarked on what Brig. Gen. Pitre calls “a new and exciting chapter in our rich air force history.” Commander 2 Canadian Air Division is now responsible for all Air Force doctrine, individual training and education. In addition to the Canadian Aerospace Warfare Centre located at 8 Wing Trenton, Brigadier General Pitre will oversee the conduct and management of training establishments at:15 Wing Moose Jaw, 16 Wing Borden, and a new Air Force Training Centre comprising several Air Force schools and training institutions In addition, he will have oversight of training conducted by the Prairie Cadet Region.

15 Wing Moose Jaw
The site of the NATO Flying Training Program in Canada which is supported by 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (2CFFTS), 15 Wing is also home to the Snowbirds, the air force's aerobatic team.
16 Wing Borden
This base is the location of the largest training facility in the Canadian Forces. 16 Wing's schools provide air force technical training and professional development and is the historic birthplace of the RCAF. 400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron is a lodger unit based at Borden's airfield.

Other units

Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering
The Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering (CFSATE), located in Borden, Ontario, delivers Aerospace Engineering Officers and conducts apprentice level training for various trades, including Avionics, Aviation, Aircraft Structures and Imagery technicians. The role of CFSATE is to provide the Air Force with qualified personnel to ensure Aircraft serviceability. CFSATE develops and carries out individual aerospace engineering training in accordance with approved doctrine and standards.[31]

Former units

  • 2 Wing Toronto – closed 1996; part of the base is now 4th Canadian Division HQ
  • 7 Wing Ottawa – closed 1995
  • 18 Wing Edmonton: Located in Edmonton, Alberta, it was the base for 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, 418 "City of Edmonton" Air Reserve Squadron, 435 Transport Squadron, 440 Transport and Rescue Squadron and 447 Transport Helicopter Squadron. It closed in 1994 and transferred to Land Force Command as army base CFB Edmonton, where 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron is the sole remaining air unit.[32]

Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing

  • Air Wing Kandahar, Afghanistan (stood up 6 December 2008, flew first mission 6 January 2009). The organization was composed of four units:
    • Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan):
      • Six – CH-147D Chinook heavy-lift helicopters
      • Eight – CH-146 Griffon tactical support helicopters – armed
      • (Six – Mi-8 medium-lift helicopters – see below)
    • Theatre Support Element
      • CC-130 Hercules tactical transport aircraft;
    • Canadian Heron UAV Detachment
      • Heron unmanned aerial vehicle

As the tasking authority responsible for the Canadian Contracted Air Transport Unit, the wing commander provided advice, co-ordination and supervision over its six leased Mi-8 medium lift helicopters. The air wing had about 450 personnel, serving with the Theatre Support Element in the Persian Gulf region and the Tactical UAV Flight at Kandahar Airfield. The wing officially stood down on 18 August 2011.

Canadian Forces pilot adjusts a CH-147 helicopter

Rank structure

Commander-in-Chief

Canada Commander-in-chief
Insignia
Title Commander-in-chief
Abbreviation C-in-C

Officers

NATO code Student officer OF-1 OF-1 OF-2 OF-3 OF-4 OF-5 OF-6 OF-7 OF-8 OF-9 OF-10
Insignia





No equivalent
Title Officer
Cadet 		Second
Lieutenant 		Lieutenant Captain Major Lieutenant-Colonel Colonel Brigadier-General Major-General Lieutenant-General General
Abbreviation OCdt 2Lt Lt Capt Maj LCol Col BGen MGen LGen Gen

Non-commissioned members

NATO Code OR-1 OR-2 OR-3 OR-4 OR-5 OR-6 OR-7 OR-8 OR-9
Insignia
Title Aviator
(recruit) 		Aviator
(basic) 		Aviator
(trained) 		Corporal Master Corporal Sergeant Warrant Officer Master Warrant Officer Chief Warrant Officer
Abbreviation Avr(R) Avr(B) Avr(T) Cpl MCpl Sgt WO MWO CWO

On 1 April 2015, the rank structure and insignia changed.[33] The rank of private was replaced with that of aviator. The previously used term "leading aircraftman" was considered not to be gender neutral.[34] Insignia was also changed from golden yellow to a pearl-grey colour similar to that worn before unification of Canada's Armed Forces in 1968.[34] A revival of the former rank titles of the RCAF will not occur, however, as the former rank titles are considered "too confusing".[33] Instead, the current rank titles will be retained (with the exception of Aviator). The Royal Flying Corps, considered to be a predecessor of the RCAF, used rank titles similar to the existing rank titles of the RCAF.[34]

Recognition

On 9 November 1984, Canada Post issued "Air Force" as part of the Canadian Forces series. The stamps were designed by Ralph Tibbles, based on an illustration by William Southern. The 32¢ stamps are perforated 12 x 12.5 and were printed by Ashton-Potter Limited.[35]

Roundels of the Royal Canadian Air Force

Roundels used from 1920 until 1945 were usually the same as Royal Air Force roundels although not all variations were used and colours were matched to locally available paints.

Badge of the Royal Canadian Air Force

The Badge of the Royal Canadian Air Force consists of:

  • St. Edward's Crown
  • Maple leaf Compartment
  • Eagle superimposed on a circlet
  • Motto Sic Itur Ad Astra (Such is the Pathway to the Stars)

See also

Template:Wikipedia books

References

Notes

  1. ^ a b "Purpose – General Information." National Defence, 23 April 2008. Retrieved: 2 September 2009.
  2. ^ "Sic Itur ad Astra – Traditions Motto/Words." National Defence, 23 April 2009, Retrieved: 1 April 2013.
  3. ^ Berthiaume, Lee. "Air force's new name got lost in translation, documents show." Postmedia News, 29 November 2011.
  4. ^ "Canadian Forces name." CBC. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  5. ^ Roberts, Leslie. There Shall Be Wings. Toronto: Clark, Irwin and Co. Ltd., 1959. No ISBN. p. 33
  6. ^ Milberry, Larry, ed. Sixty Years—The RCAF and CF Air Command 1924–1984. Toronto: Canav Books, 1984. ISBN 0-9690703-4-9. p. 17
  7. ^ A History of Air Services in Canada Retrieved: 21 May 2014
  8. ^ Milberry, Larry, ed. Sixty Years—The RCAF and CF Air Command 1924–1984. Toronto: Canav Books, 1984. ISBN 0-9690703-4-9. p. 97
  9. ^ Galloway, Gloria. "Conservatives to restore ‘royal’ monikers for navy, air force." The Globe and Mail, 15 August 2011. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  10. ^ Fitzpatrick, Meagan. "Peter MacKay hails 'royal' renaming of military." CBC News, 16 August 2011. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  11. ^ "Canada sending frigate to join NATO in eastern Europe|." The Globe and Mail, 1 May 2014.
  12. ^ http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=956819&tp=1
  13. ^ Warwick, Graham. "Canada signs $1.4bn contract for 17 Lockheed Martin C-130Js." Flight International, 16 January 2008. Retrieved: 17 January 2008.
  14. ^ "Canadian Forces CC-130 Hercules." Ody.ca . Retrieved: 20 March 2011.
  15. ^ "CF-18 Hornet in Canadian Service." ejection-history.org.uk. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  16. ^ "Canadian CF-18 fighter jets to be kept in use until 2025." airrecognition.com, 2 October 2014.
  17. ^ "Dillon Aero 7.62 mm M134 Minigun during exercise near Kandahar." The Maple Leaf, Vol. 12, No. 9, 4 March 2009. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  18. ^ "Canada Increases Air Capabilities in Afghanistan." DND/CF News, November 2008. Retrieved: 13 March 2009
  19. ^ "Griffon at Kandahar." airforce.forces.gc.ca. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  20. ^ First CH-147F Chinook helicopter welcomed to Canada, National Defence- Royal Canadian Air Force Retrieved: 28 June 2013.
  21. ^ "Boeing Completes Delivery of Canadian CH-147F Chinooks Transport Helicopter." Global News, 2 July 2014.
  22. ^ "Boeing delivered CH-147F Chinook Maintenance Trainer to the Royal Canadian Air Force." Global News, 13 January 2015.
  23. ^ "Tactical combat training provided to the armed forces of Canada, France and the United States." Lortie Aviation. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  24. ^ "CF-188 Hornets on Op MOBILE drop first JDAM bombs." Forces.gc. Retrieved: 2 February 2012.
  25. ^ "Disposal of Rockeye Cluster Bombs at CFAD Dundurn." National Defence and the Canadian Forces, 27 July 2004. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  26. ^ "Cold Lake Air Weapons Range." National Defence Canada: 4 Wing Cold Lake . Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  27. ^ "Goose Bay The Freedom to Fly." National Defence Canada: 5 Wing Goose Bay . Retrieved: 16 May 2012.
  28. ^ "New Commander for 2 Canadian Air Division." Department of National Defence, 6 November 2013.
  29. ^ "Pictou County man new commander of Air Division, Winnipeg." The News, 13 July 2011. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  30. ^ 2 Canadian Air Division Stands Up[dead link]
  31. ^ "Overview." Rocky Mountain Rangers. Retrieved: 26 September 2011.
  32. ^ "Canadian Forces Base Edmonton – Canadian Army." forces.gc.ca. Retrieved: 11 April 2015.
  33. ^ a b "New Royal Canadian Air Force uniform unveiled." CTV Ottawa1 April 2015.
  34. ^ a b c "DND Backgrounder." news.gc.ca, April 2015.
  35. ^ "Canada Post stamp." Collections Canada. Retrieved: 23 October 2012.

Bibliography

  • Douglas, W. A. B. The Creation of a National Air Force: Official History of the Royal Canadian Air Force, v. 2. Toronto: University of Toronto Press (in co-operation with the Department of National Defence), 1986. ISBN 0-8020-2584-6.
  • Milberry, Larry, ed. Sixty Years: The RCAF and CF Air Command 1924–1984. Toronto: Canav Books, 1984. ISBN 0-9690703-4-9.
  • Piggott, Peter. Flying Canucks: Famous Canadian Aviators. Toronto: Hounslow Press, 1996. ISBN 0-88882-175-1.
  • Piggott, Peter. Flying Canucks II: Pioneers of Canadian Aviation. Toronto: Hounslow Press, 1997. ISBN 0-88882-193-X.
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Royal Canadian Air Force.

Template:Current CF aircraft

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Royal_Canadian_Air_Force&oldid=689842228"