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[[Image:CF-18Flare.jpg|thumb|right|200px|CF-18 Hornet]]
⚫
'''Canadian Forces Air Command''' ('''AIRCOM''') is the [[air force]] branch of the [[Canadian Armed Forces]]. AIRCOM is the descendant of the [[Royal Canadian Air Force|Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)]], which was [[Canada]]'s air force from its foundation in [[1924]] until [[February 1]], [[1968]]. Prior to 1924, the [[Royal Air Force]] provided air defence for [[Canada]]. After 1968, the RCAF was merged with the Army and the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] to form the Canadian Armed Forces.
[[Image:CC-115 Buffalo.jpg|right|thumb|200px|CC-115 Buffalo]]
[[Image:CT-114.jpg|thumb|200px|CT-114 Tutor]]

⚫
'''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.


==Mission==
==Mission==
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''For history before 1968, see [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]''
''For history before 1968, see [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]''


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

Following unification on [[February 1]], [[1968]], aircraft and bases of the RCAF and the [[Royal Canadian Navy]] (the Royal Canadian Naval Aviation Service), were scattered across several different commands of the newly unified forces.

[[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.


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


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.
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.


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


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


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


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.
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.
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==AIRCOM Aircraft==
==AIRCOM Aircraft==
===Strike, Attack and Offensive Support Aircraft===
===Strike, Attack and Offensive Support Aircraft===
* 115 McDonnell-Douglas '''[[CF-18 Hornet]]''' tactical fighter bombers
* 115 [[McDonnell-Douglas]] '''[[CF-18 Hornet]]''' tactical fighter bombers


===Maritime Patrol/Reconnaissance Aircraft===
===Maritime Patrol/Reconnaissance Aircraft===
* 18 Lockheed '''[[CP-140 Aurora]]''' long-range patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft
* 18 [[Lockheed Corporation]] '''[[CP-140 Aurora]]''' long-range patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft
* 3 Lockheed '''[[CP-140A Arcturus]]''' long-range patrol aircraft
* 3 [[Lockheed Corporation]] '''[[CP-140A Arcturus]]''' long-range patrol aircraft
* 6 SAGEM '''[[SAGEM Sperwer|CU-161 Sperwer]]''' Drone/UAV
* 6 [[SAGEM]] '''[[SAGEM Sperwer|CU-161 Sperwer]]''' Drone/UAV


===Helicopters===
===Helicopters===
* 86 Bell '''[[CH-146 Griffon]]''' tactical transport helicopters
* 86 [[Bell Helicopter Textron]] '''[[CH-146 Griffon]]''' tactical transport helicopters
* 27 Sikorsky '''[[H-3 Sea King|CH-124 Sea King]]''' maritime anti-submarine warfare helicopters
* 28 [[Sikorsky Aircraft]] '''[[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk|CH-148 Cyclone]]''' (''to be delivered in [[2008]])''
* 15 AgustaWestland '''[[AgustaWestland EH101|CH-149 Cormorant]]''' search and rescue helicopters
* 27 [[Sikorsky Aircraft]] '''[[H-3 Sea King|CH-124 Sea King]]''' maritime anti-submarine warfare helicopters
* 14 Bell '''[[Bell 206|CH-139 Jet Ranger]]''' light helicopters
* 14 [[AgustaWestland]] '''[[AgustaWestland EH101|CH-149 Cormorant]]''' search and rescue helicopters
* 14 [[Bell Helicopter Textron]] '''[[Bell 206|CH-139 Jet Ranger]]''' light helicopters


===Transport and Air-to-Air Refuelling Aircraft===
===Transport and Air-to-Air Refuelling Aircraft===
* 32 Lockheed '''[[C-130 Hercules|CC-130 Hercules]]''' combat transports
* 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)
* 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 [[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)
* 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
* 4 [[De Havilland Canada]] '''[[De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter|CC-138 Twin Otter]]''' short range transports


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


===Aircraft on order===
===Proposed Future Aircraft===


{| border=1 style="border-collapse: collapse;"
* 28 Sikorsky '''[[Sikorsky H-92 Superhawk|CH-148 Cyclone]]''' (''to be delivered in [[2008]])''
|- bgcolor=cccccc
!Number!!Builder!!Model!!Type!!Dates
|-
|
| [[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
|}

Notes:
* 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].


==Wings==
==Wings==
[[Image:SnowBirdsHeadOn.jpg|thumb|The [[Snowbirds]], CFAC's aeorabtics team.]]
[[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.
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.


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*'''[[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]]'''
*'''[[CFB Goose Bay|5 Wing Goose Bay]]'''
:The site of [[NATO]] tactical low-level flying training in Canada, 5 Wing is home to permanent detachments from the UK's [[Royal Air Force]], the German [[Luftwaffe]], the [[Royal Netherlands Air Force]] and the Italian [[Aeronautica Militare]]. 5 Wing also serves as a [[NORAD]] [[CF-18 Hornet]] deployed operating base and airfield supporting a mix of aviation activities, military and civilian, in eastern Canada.
:The 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.


*'''[[CFB Trenton|8 Wing Trenton]]'''
*'''[[CFB Trenton|8 Wing Trenton]]'''
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*'''[[CFB North Bay|22 Wing North Bay]]'''
*'''[[CFB North Bay|22 Wing North Bay]]'''
:Represents one of Canada's major contributions to the North American Aerospace Defence (NORAD) agreement. From its underground complex at the Sector Air Operations Centre, technicians watch over Canada's airspace 24 hours a day, using state-of-the-art sensors, computer and communications equipment.
: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.

Former units includes:

*'''[[CFB Toronto|2 Wing Toronto]]'''

*'''6 Wing''' - information N/A

*'''[[RCAF Station Uplands|7 Wing Ottawa]]'''

*'''10 Wing''' - information N/A

*'''11 Wing''' - information N/A

*'''13 Wing''' - information N/A

*'''18 Wing Edmonton''' - information N/A

*'''20 Wing''' - information N/A

*'''21 Wing''' - information N/A


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


* [[12 Radar Squadron/12ième Escadron de radar]] - 3 Wing Bagotville
* [[103 Search and Rescue Squadron]] - 9 Wing Gander
* [[400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[402 Squadron Navigation School Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
* [[402 Squadron Navigation School Squadron]] - 17 Wing Winnipeg
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* [[407 Squadron Maritime Patrol Squadron]] - 19 Wing Comox
* [[407 Squadron Maritime Patrol Squadron]] - 19 Wing Comox
* [[408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron|408 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron|408 Squadron Tactical Helicopter Squadron]] - 1 Wing Kingston
* [[No. 409 Squadron RCAF|409 Tactical Figther Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[410 Squadron Tactical Fighter Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[410 Squadron Tactical Fighter Training Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[412 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[412 Squadron Transport Squadron]] - 8 Wing Trenton
* [[413 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
* [[No. 413 Squadron RCAF|413 Squadron Transport and Rescue Squadron]] - 14 Wing Greenwood
* [[416 Squadron Tactical Fighter Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[416 Squadron Tactical Fighter Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[No. 417 Squadron RCAF|417 Squadron Combat Support Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
* [[No. 417 Squadron RCAF|417 Squadron Combat Support Squadron]] - 4 Wing Cold Lake
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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.
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.

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.


==Aircraft deployments==
==Aircraft deployments==
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* [[CFB Petawawa]]
* [[CFB Petawawa]]
* [[CFB Edmonton]]
* [[CFB Edmonton]]
* [[St. Hubert]]
* [[RCAF Station St Hubert]]
* [[3 Wing Bagotville]]
* [[3 Wing Bagotville]]
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
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Transport and VIP aircraft are based at:
Transport and VIP aircraft are based at:
* [[8 Wing Trenton]]
* [[8 Wing Trenton]]
* [[17 Wing Winnipeg]]
* [[CFB Winnipeg|17 Wing Winnipeg]]
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
* [[4 Wing Cold Lake]]
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]]
* [[14 Wing Greenwood]]
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==Command and Control==
==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.
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.


==Personnel==
==Personnel==
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Reserve Force: 2,600<br>
Reserve Force: 2,600<br>
Civilians: 2,500
Civilians: 2,500

== References ==
<div class="references-small">
<references/>
</div>


==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/index_e.asp Official web site]
*[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/index_e.asp Official web site]
*[http://www.airforce.forces.ca/acband/index_e.asp Official Website of The Air Command Band]
*[http://www.airforce.forces.ca/acband/index_e.asp Official Website of The Air Command Band]
*[http://army.ca Army.ca] - [[Army.ca]] is an online forum for discussion on the Canadian military establishment, including Air Force issues


==See also==
⚫
[[Category:Canadian Forces Air Command| ]]
* [[List of active Canadian military aircraft]]


⚫
[[de:Canadian Forces Air Command]]


{{Canadian Armed Forces}}
{{Canadian Armed Forces}}
⚫
[[Category:Canadian Forces Air Command| ]]
{{Template:Military aircraft of Canada}}
⚫
[[de:Canadian Forces Air Command]]

Revision as of 22:02, 29 August 2006

File:CF-18Flare.jpg
CF-18 Hornet
File:CC-115 Buffalo.jpg
CC-115 Buffalo
File:CT-114.jpg
CT-114 Tutor

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.

Mission

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

History

For history before 1968, see Royal Canadian Air Force

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

Following unification on February 1, 1968, aircraft and bases of the RCAF and the Royal Canadian Navy (the Royal Canadian Naval Aviation Service), were scattered across several different commands of the newly unified forces.

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. 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 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-113A Voyageur) and the RCAF's tactical and ground attack aircraft (CF-104 Starfighter). 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 until that vessel's retirement in the early 1970s. Pilot and aircrew training were taken over by Training Command, which was responsible for trades training across all other commands in the armed forces.

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.

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

AIRCOM also underwent significant changes in the late 1970s when the CP-107 Argus and CP-121 Tracker were replaced with the CP-140 Aurora/CP-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.

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.

In the early 1990s, AIRCOM transport and utility helicopters in support of 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.

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

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

AIRCOM Aircraft

Strike, Attack and Offensive Support Aircraft

Maritime Patrol/Reconnaissance Aircraft

Helicopters

Transport and Air-to-Air Refuelling Aircraft

Training Aircraft

Proposed Future Aircraft

Number Builder Model Type Dates
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II strike fighter
17[1] TBD Replacement for C-130 Hercules short haul tactical lift aircraft 2010
4[2] Boeing Integrated Defense Systems C-17 Globemaster III strategic lift aircraft 2006
16[3] Boeing Integrated Defense Systems CH-47 Chinook heavy lift helicopters 2009

Notes:

  • Canada has contributed $150 Million to the JSF program as a Tier III Partner[4] 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 operational requirements.

Wings

5 Wing Goose Bay
File:Bagotville-aerien.jpg
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.

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

Former units includes:

  • 6 Wing - information N/A
  • 10 Wing - information N/A
  • 11 Wing - information N/A
  • 13 Wing - information N/A
  • 18 Wing Edmonton - information N/A
  • 20 Wing - information N/A
  • 21 Wing - information N/A

Squadrons

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

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

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.

Aircraft deployments

Maritime patrol aircraft are based at:

SAR squadrons are based at:

Transport and utility helicopters are based at:

Transport and VIP aircraft are based at:

Interceptor/tactical aircraft are based at:

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

Maritime helicopters are based at:

Command and Control

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

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

Personnel

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

References

  1. ^ Airlift Capability Project - Tactical MERX Website - Government of Canada
  2. ^ Airlift Capability Project - Strategic ACP-S - ACAN MERX Website - Government of Canada
  3. ^ Medium to Heavy Lift Helicopter (MHLH) - ACAN MERX Website - Government of Canada
  4. ^ Joint Strike Fighter Signing Ceremony Department of Defense February 7, 2002.

See also


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