The Canadian North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Region will conduct planned aerospace defence activities in support of FIFA World Cup events in Southern Ontario commencing on June 4, 2026.

Beginning on June 4, 2026, a temporary air surveillance radar will be installed at the Canadian Armed Forces’ Winona Range and Training Area near Grimsby, Ontario. The radar is expected to become operational on June 8 and will remain in place until July 8, 2026.

Members of the public may observe the radar from across the water near the range; however, its presence poses no risk, and is not expected to interfere with public communications, vehicles, or electronic devices.

As part of broader efforts to enhance airspace safety and security, residents in Southern Ontario may also notice increased NORAD air activity on June 8, 2026, during a routine live-fly training exercise. This pre-planned exercise will involve two CF-18 fighter aircraft, a tanker aircraft, and two civilian Alpha Jets. The CF-18s will intercept the Alpha Jet simulating a threat and escort it towards the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport area.

During the exercise, members of the public may see or hear fighter jets flying alongside civilian aircraft in the vicinity of Brantford, and along the north shore of Lake Ontario between Hamilton and Toronto.

These activities are carefully planned and conducted in a controlled manner, and the safety of the public and participating personnel remains the highest priority. These routine measures support NORAD’s ongoing aerospace warning and aerospace control missions and contribute to preparations for World Cup events by maintaining safe and secure airspace during matches.