Canada is in the process of building a modern, state-of-the-art Air Force and is concentrated on implementing several major acquisition projects. Two noteworthy programs include the next Tactical Aviation Capability Set (nTACS) to replace Canada’s fleet of Griffon helicopters and plans to acquire a fleet of Airborne Early Warning (AEW) aircraft to enhance its long-range threat detection capabilities and improve interoperability with the United States within NORAD.
The recent acquisition of aircraft like the F-35 Lightning II, P-8A Poseidon, MQ-9B SkyGuardian and A330 MRTT are also clear indications of Canada’s ongoing effort to modernize its fleets.
For our annual Air Force Suppliers Summit, CDR has invited executives from a select group of key suppliers to weigh in on what capabilities their respective companies have on offer for current and future Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) requirements.
Here is our report.
Top Executive: Jacques Comtois, Vice President of Canadian Operations
Tagline: THE ARCFIELD ADVANTAGE
Arcfield Canada is a trusted partner to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and a premier aerospace and defence contractor, specializing in mission sustainment for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) CF-18 fighter fleet. With more than 35 years of proven performance, Arcfield delivers continuous, around-the-clock support that ensures the operational readiness of Canada’s frontline fighter capability—both at home and on deployed missions.
As the sole prime contractor for CF-18 avionics sustainment and nose-to-tail supply chain management, Arcfield provides comprehensive in-service support across the entire avionics suite and test infrastructure. The company also oversees the largest pool of government-owned materiel dedicated to fighter platform sustainment in Canada.
Arcfield’s nationwide team of experts brings deep domain knowledge in advanced engineering, integrated logistics, and the maintenance, repair, overhaul, and upgrade (MRO&U) of complex airborne systems. This uniquely Canadian capability ensures platform performance, availability, and mission assurance.
In collaboration with leading industry partners, Arcfield is continuously innovating—applying cutting-edge technologies to strengthen operational efficiency, enhance fleet lifecycle performance, and increase supply chain resilience. Its next-generation cybersecurity solutions safeguard defence infrastructure, enabling secure data flow, advanced risk analytics, and cyber materiel assurance across enterprise environments.
As Canada transitions from the legacy CF-18 fleet to the next-generation CF-35, Arcfield stands ready to deliver a seamless, low-risk sustainment solution that leverages decades of experience.
Top Executive: Michael Nault, General Manager
Tagline: N/A
Bell Textron Canada opened its Commercial Centre of Excellence in Mirabel, Quebec in 1986 and is dedicated to building rotorcraft capacities in Canada, delivering exceptional customer experiences, and providing superior service and support globally. Represented by more than 1,600 employees and 550 suppliers across Canada, Bell Textron Canada has built and delivered 6,000 aircraft, with 1,000 provided to Canadian operators. Bell’s Canadian Supply Centre in Calgary ensures part security for operators such as the Canadian Armed Forces.
The relationship with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and Bell Textron Canada dates back to the 1970s with the CH-135 Twin-Huey, CH-136 Kiowa, and CH-139 Iroquois helicopters. In the mid-1990s, these fleets were replaced by the CH-146 Griffon helicopters, which now account for over 60% of the RCAF’s rotary wing assets. The Griffon has been extensively modified for various missions, including electro-optics and defensive weaponry for the war in Afghanistan. Its versatility has been demonstrated in numerous international missions, such as humanitarian efforts in Haiti and the Philippines, UN mandates in the Balkans and Mali, and NATO support. Domestically, the Griffon has supported law enforcement, responded to natural disasters, and provided counterterrorist and Search and Rescue services.
Through the Griffon Limited Life Extension (GLLE) and CH-146 Integrated Service Support (ISS) contracts, Bell Textron Canada continues to modernize and sustain the Griffon fleet. These initiatives ensure the fleet remains operational until at least 2035, with significant upgrades to avionics, communication systems, and cockpit displays. Bell Textron Canada’s dedication to innovation and reliability has solidified its role as the backbone of the Canadian helicopter industry, contributing significantly to the country’s aerospace sector and military capabilities.
Top Executive: Al Meinzinger, President, Boeing Canada
Tagline: N/A
Boeing‘s partnership with Canada spans over a century, beginning with Bill Boeing’s first international airmail delivery from Vancouver to Seattle in 1919. For the past 106 years, Boeing has been proud to deliver aerospace capabilities in Canada, supporting national defence and economic growth.
Today, Boeing’s presence in Canada includes 15 sites across seven provinces, supporting over 14,000 jobs in communities nationwide. With approximately 100,000 passengers flying on Boeing planes operated by Canadian airlines each day, a number that is expected to grow over the next 20 years, safety and quality remain paramount.
A cornerstone of Boeing’s success is the collaboration with approximately 500 Canadian suppliers, positioning Canada as a significant international supplier base. Boeing’s 2,000 Canadian employees are dedicated to meeting the country’s aerospace needs. Boeing’s Winnipeg site is Canada’s largest aerospace composite manufacturer, supplying critical components for both commercial and defence aircraft.
Boeing’s collaboration with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) supports national defence capabilities. Long-standing In-Service Support programs for the RCAF’s CH-147F Chinook and CC-177 Globemaster fleets ensure aircraft readiness and extend platform life. This commitment will continue with the P-8A Poseidon, recently selected to fulfill Canada’s long-range multi-mission aircraft role.
Looking to the future, Boeing remains focused on improving aircraft availability and integrating advanced technologies to enhance fleet performance. The enduring relationship with Canada, supported by local suppliers and dedicated employees, ensures that the country remains an integral part of Boeing’s global supply chain, driving innovation and excellence in aerospace while supporting the vital missions of the RCAF.
Top Executive: France Hébert, Division President – Defense & Security Canada & Global Operations Lead
Tagline: N/A
Headquartered in Montreal, CAE is a global leader in training and simulation with over 13,000 employees supporting Defence and Security and Civil Aviation for over 75 years. Renowned for developing high-fidelity flight and mission simulators for both civil and military use, CAE leverages advanced technologies and a science of learning approach to enhance mission-critical training. With more than 240 sites in 40 countries, CAE is strategically positioned to meet customer needs worldwide.
As Canada’s largest domestic defence company, CAE trains every RCAF pilot and provides wings training to every USAF and US Army pilot, along with many other branches of the US military. CAE also offers training on the CC-130J Hercules, CH-147F Chinook, and the CC-295 Kingfisher SAR aircraft, and provides systems engineering services and operational support for Canada’s CF-188 Hornet and CH-148 Cyclone Maritime Helicopter.
CAE collaborates on domestic and export programs with partner firms of all sizes – whether as a member of team SkyGuardian with General Atomics or teamed with other firms for programs as diverse as the Canadian Army’s Land Vehicle Crew Training System (LVCTS) or the River-class destroyer, formerly the Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) program. CAE technologies will reduce transition risk, increase training quality and throughput, and help the CAF to modernize and harmonize its joint training ecosystem.
At CAE innovating training to ensure our customers’ mission readiness is our top priority. Leading SkyAlyne with KF Aerospace, CAE is part of the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. As a member of team Poseidon, CAE joins 80 companies to deliver the future Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA). CAE also partners with Boeing for similar programs in Germany and Norway, building on over a decade of support for P-8A operations in the US Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force, and Royal Air Force.
Recently, CAE was identified as a strategic partner to the Canadian government for the Future Fighter Lead-In Training (FFLIT) program, further solidifying its role in preparing and training pilots to operate Canada’s advanced fighter jets.
Top Executive: Joel Houde, Vice-President & General Manager
Tagline: MADE-IN-CANADA, READY FOR THE WORLD
General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada’s airborne mission management and integrated sonar systems are delivering best-in-class, made-in-Canada ISR and ASW capabilities in some of the world’s most challenging maritime, overland, and littoral environments. In the uncrewed space, our engineering experts are pioneering the rapid advancement of emerging technology at our Centre of Excellence for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems.
For decades, General Dynamics has built and established its reputation as Canada’s ASW partner. Our suite of sonobuoy processing systems on the Royal Canadian Air Force’s CP-140 Aurora and CH-148 Cyclone – coupled with our sonar suite onboard the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class frigates – has earned Canada a reputation as the world leader in ASW. This success has resulted in significant made-in-Canada ASW exports to Europe, Asia, and South America where our mission systems routinely face down the most dangerous underwater threats worldwide.
These technologies offer the capability overmatch Canada is looking for in planned and future procurements. This presents a clear opportunity for Canada, while revising its Defence Industrial Strategy, to leverage years of ASW investment to strengthen its defence industrial base while maintaining sovereign control of its military technology.
A key advantage of these systems is their open architecture, which allows for interoperability and interchangeability. Being platform and sensor-agnostic allows for integration across crewed and uncrewed assets. Of critical importance in modern operations, this architecture supports a collaborative approach to operations, allowing for seamless coordination between Canada, its allies, and multinational partners.
General Dynamics is a force in the Canadian business community: developing and utilizing the skills and resources of Canadian STEM workers, partnering with a broad spectrum of Canadian suppliers, building Canada’s manufacturing base, and supporting research and development while providing an innovation-driven workplace. We are passionate about giving back and are proud to support charities and organizations in the communities in which we live and work.
IMP AEROSPACE & DEFENCE
Top Executive: Clark Bain, Senior Vice President Strategic Development
Tagline: N/A
IMP Aerospace & Defence is proud to be a tested and proven sustainment center of excellence, steadfast in our efforts to keep our customers Mission Ready. With decades of experience maintaining Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) fleets, IMP has consistently adapted to meet the evolving requirements of each generation. Notably, IMP was the first, under delegated authority, to design, certify, and manufacture 3D-printed thermoplastic parts for RCAF aircraft—an innovative solution to combat parts obsolescence in CP-140/P-3 fleets worldwide. Through avionics and structural upgrades, IMP has successfully sustained Canada’s CP-140 Auroras for more than 25 years.
IMP’s strength lies in the diversity of its capabilities. With national and international operations, the company serves air, land, sea, and space sectors. While widely recognized for fleet sustainment expertise, IMP also excels in manufacturing and engineering. For instance, IMP Aerostructures produces components for the CH-17 Chinook, CP-140 Aurora, and CC-130/CC-130J Hercules. Meanwhile, IMP Electronic Systems specializes in designing, manufacturing, and repairing wire harnesses and structures for fleets like the CF-18, CP-140, CH-149, and CH-47—even contributing to the build of the James Webb Space Telescope, located 1.7 million kilometers from Earth.
Looking ahead, IMP remains committed to supporting the RCAF. As part of Team Poseidon, IMP will combine Cascade Aerospace’s extensive experience maintaining Boeing 737s with its own legacy as Canada’s multi-mission aircraft center of excellence to sustain Canada’s much anticipated P-8 fleet. IMP is also leveraging over 25 years of CH-149 fleet support to complete Leonardo’s Cormorant Mid-Life Upgrade, ensuring the updated Cormorant remains operational through 2040 and beyond. Honored to serve the RCAF, IMP looks forward to continuing its vital mission and its contribution to this critical Canadian service.
Top Executive: Tracy Medve, President & CEO
Tagline: N/A
A truly Canadian success story, KF Aerospace (Kelowna Flightcraft Ltd.) was founded in Kelowna, British Columbia in 1970 and has since grown into Canada’s largest commercial MRO with 1200+ employees across six main operations in Canada.
KF Aerospace is a Department of National Defence (DND)-recognized Design Approval Organization (DAO) and Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO). KF Aerospace conducts major modification services, maintains full-time aircraft maintenance control and records offices and regularly performs engineered repairs and avionics upgrades for Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) aircraft, including the RCAF’s CC-138 Twin Otters.
KF Aerospace is the prime contractor for the Flying Training and Support (CFTS) Program in Southport, MB – one of two contracted programs that supports RCAF pilot training. At Southport, KF Aerospace and partner contractors (Allied Wings) conduct live flying, classroom and simulation pilot training and manage all in-service support (ISS).
KF Aerospace is a proud founding member of SkyAlyne along with partner CAE, Inc., selected by Canada for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program, a 25-year contract to train all RCAF pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers (ACSOs) and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators (AES Ops) at three operational locations. Under this program, KF Aerospace leads the acquisition and airworthiness of all five training fleets, manages the Southport training base, and will deliver the multi-engine training program using a new fleet of King Air 260 aircraft.
KF Aerospace is also the exclusive North American dealer for Grob Aircraft SE and the Grob G 120TP-A, a versatile side-by-side trainer ideal for military pilot training and utilized by air forces around the world.
KF conducts over 1 million hours of aircraft maintenance per year in support of its commercial and military customers.
Top Executive: Rich Foster, Chief Executive & Vice President
Tagline: DEPENDABLE TECHNOLOGY FOR SAFER SKIES
L3Harris Technologies, one of Canada’s largest and most diverse defence and security companies, has provided advanced, resilient and innovative solutions in Canada for over six decades across all domains.
As the premier provider of multi-domain, multi-spectral electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) imaging, L3Harris’ WESCAM MXTM-Series sensor systems lead the industry for patrol, border security, search and rescue, and target acquisition missions worldwide. Renowned for their integration with manned and unmanned intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms such as the CP-8A Poseidon and CQ-9B SkyGuardian, they ensure comprehensive situational awareness in even the most complex operations.
Additionally, L3Harris proudly supports Canada’s national interests by delivering complete in-service support solutions to many of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s mission-critical fleets from its Fighter Aircraft Depot. These include the CF-188 Hornet, CC-150 Polaris, CP-140 Aurora, CH-148 Cyclone, CH-147F Chinook, CT-114 Tutor (Snowbirds), and Interim Support of the CC-330 Husky fleet, as part of the Canadian government’s Strategic Tanker Transport Capability (STTC) project. L3Harris was also selected as Canada’s Strategic Partner for the F-35 Depot and Sustainment.
L3Harris’ commitment to providing agile solutions and enhanced interoperability across multiple platforms for the Canadian Armed Forces is also demonstrated through their involvement in critical programs such as the Manned Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (MAISR) and the upcoming Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEWC). Leveraging advanced sensor suites, communication systems and seamlessly missionized platforms, they ensure mission success in dynamic operational environments.
From ISR and SIGINT capabilities to advancements in avionic systems and civil aviation technologies, L3Harris continues to innovate, pushing technological boundaries to keep our skies safe and secure.
Top Executive: Lorenzo Marandola, President
Tagline: N/A
Founded in 2012, M1 Composites Technology Inc. has quickly established itself as a leader in advanced aerostructure solutions. Located just north of Montreal, Canada, M1 operates from an 82,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility featuring cutting-edge capabilities such as a 12′ x 20′ autoclave, an in-house radome transmissivity test facility, an ISO 7 clean room, multiple paint and sanding booths, and a full suite of NDT equipment. Its strategic location near major airports and highways enables efficient logistics and support operations.
Trusted by customers to keep their fleets operational, M1 achieved a major milestone in April 2024 by being selected by Airbus as the first designated A220 repair station in North America — a strong testament to M1’s quality and expertise.
M1 provides comprehensive manufacturing, engineering, sustainment, and repair services for both commercial and military sectors. The company specializes in the design, fabrication, and maintenance of composite and metallic structures and components. Key areas of expertise include radomes, flight control surfaces, nacelles, drones, and landing gear doors. M1 proudly supports major OEMs, airlines, and military operators alike.
Collaborating with Prime aerospace companies across North America, M1 provides premier engineering, repair, and maintenance services to aircraft flown by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF). M1 has supported a variety of military aircraft, including the CT-114 Tutor, CP-140 Aurora, CH-147 Chinook, CC-130 Hercules, CC-150 Polaris, C-5 Galaxy, A-4 Skyhawk, A-10 Warthog, and the Alpha Jet.
M1’s spirit of innovation shines through advanced projects, including developing nacelle systems for hybrid-electric aircraft, producing structures for eVTOL UAVs, and manufacturing SATCOM radomes. Ongoing investments in R&D and advanced technologies ensure that M1 remains a trusted partner ready to meet the aerospace challenges of tomorrow.
M1 is dedicated to leading Canada’s sovereign capability growth to ensure our country remains safe, strong, and free.
Top Executive: Paul Bouchard, Co-Founder & CEO
Tagline: N/A
Founded in Montreal in 2000 by former RCAF CF-18 pilots, Top Aces is a trusted training partner to the Canadian Armed Forces, specializing in live-fly Adversary Air (ADAIR) and Close Air Support (CAS) training. Celebrating our 25th anniversary, Top Aces has evolved into a global leader, achieving an industry record of 140,000+ accident-free training hours in support of NATO and allied nations.
Top Aces’ mission is to deliver safe and professional defense training solutions, ensuring the operational readiness of our customers. Utilizing a fleet of modernized, civil-certified ex-military aircraft equipped with advanced capabilities, Top Aces significantly lowers military training costs for in-house adversary support. This approach enhances military resources and combat readiness by enabling their pilots to concentrate on core “Blue Air” techniques rather than assuming adversary roles. Our highly experienced military veterans take great pride in continuing to mentor and support the training of active-duty aviators, soldiers and sailors.
As advanced technologies rapidly transform modern warfare, Top Aces is recognized for our innovation and collaborative approach with customers to continuously evolve our service offerings. Our fleet of Advanced Aggressor Fighters (AAFs), which consist of A-4 Skyhawks and the world’s only privately owned F-16 Vipers, is equipped with Top Aces’ proprietary “Advanced Aggressor Mission System” (AAMS). This system allows for the integration of cutting-edge sensors, including active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and infrared search and track (IRST), effectively replicating the threats posed by advanced adversary fighter aircraft.
In addition to expanding our ADAIR business through capability enhancements brought about by AAMS, Top Aces is focused on expanding our F-16 operations, delivering CAS training services in new markets, and collaborating with Canadian defense industry partners to provide Made-In-Canada solutions for FFCP, OTIEM, FFLIT, and FAcT programs.
Top Executive: Garry Venman, Regional Vice President
Tagline: N/A
RTX is the world’s largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. RTX has maintained a nearly 100-year partnership with the Canadian government and the aerospace and defense industry.
Operating through its three main businesses—Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon—as well as its Canadian-based subsidiaries, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Raytheon Canada, RTX offers a vast array of capabilities. These include general, regional, and military aviation; helicopters; engines and auxiliary power units; aircraft interiors; landing gear; secure communications and datalink systems; sensors; precision weapons; mission systems applications; and high-precision optics.
With decades of continuous service to the Canadian Armed Forces, particularly the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), RTX has built a trusted relationship with the Department of National Defence (DND), consistently delivering top-quality products and services in a timely and cost-effective manner.
As a global company with 59,000 specialized engineering experts, RTX leverages new product development to provide world-class, cutting-edge technology solutions to meet DND’s diverse and demanding needs.
By harnessing our expanded portfolio of products, services, and integration expertise, RTX is uniquely positioned to meet and exceed the requirements of Canadian customers like the RCAF, now more than ever.
Top Executive: Carl Kumpic, Vice President Defence & Government
Tagline: N/A
Voyageur Aviation Corp., a subsidiary of Chorus Aviation Inc., is a Canadian leader in special mission operations, aircraft maintenance, and modification services for both domestic and international clients. With licenses as an Air Operator, Approved Maintenance Organization (AMO), and Design Approval Organization (DAO), Voyageur offers comprehensive solutions for civilian and defense sectors.
Founded in 1968, Voyageur employs over 400 professionals and operates from a 200,000 sq. ft. multi-hangar facility in North Bay, Ontario. Our aircraft expertise includes the De Havilland Dash 8, MHIRJ regional jets, Beechcraft King Air, and ATR aircraft. These aircraft are modified for a wide range of missions including ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), air ambulance, troop transport, SAR (Search and Rescue), aerial firefighting, and disaster relief.
Voyageur’s long-standing expertise extends to in-service support (ISS), logistics, and deployed operations. The company is one of the largest fixed-wing operators for the United Nations, supporting humanitarian missions in remote and challenging regions. Voyageur’s experience in supporting global operations helps ensure effective aircraft availability and mission success in any environment.
Our in-house engineering team delivers certified modifications, mission system upgrades, sensor integrations, and STC approvals. Recent programs include avionics and radar upgrades to the RCAF’s CT-142 fleet and ISS for the CE-145 Vigilance fleet.
Voyageur is also advancing into uncrewed aerial systems, collaborating with leading UAS/RPAS providers supporting global ISR applications.
With over five decades of innovation and operational excellence, Voyageur Aviation remains committed to delivering exceptional service and transformative aerospace solutions—ready to meet tomorrow’s challenges, anywhere in the world.
