Canada’s air force is set to receive the first of four new air tankers by the end of next year, crucial for refueling fighter jets in the Arctic. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) recently revealed the status of the CC-330 Husky fleet, which is replacing the aging Airbus 310s that have been the primary aircraft for international missions, including transporting troops and the prime minister.
The primary function of these wide-body jets is to serve as flying gas stations, a critical role as Canada aims to enhance its continental defense capabilities. According to a spokesperson from the Department of National Defence, the initial new aircraft is expected to be handed over to the RCAF in late 2027.
In a significant deal in July 2023, Canada secured nine Airbus A330s for approximately $3.6 billion, comprising five used jets with minimal service history from Kuwait Airways and four brand-new aircraft. The number of new planes to be delivered by the end of next year had not been previously disclosed by the department.
Presently, three of the used Airbus planes have been delivered in their original airline configuration. While these planes are currently used for passenger transport, one has already entered heavy maintenance at Mirabel Airport. The remaining used planes are undergoing refurbishment in Switzerland and Spain to be converted into air tankers. Additionally, the first new-build tanker is undergoing testing in Spain, with the other three new builds in production in Toulouse, France.
The RCAF relies on air tankers to support its CF-18s and upcoming F-35s during Arctic patrols. These tankers play a crucial role in extending the operational duration and reach of fighter jets, which consume fuel rapidly. The importance of air tankers was underscored during the recent FIFA World Cup games in Toronto, where an aging tanker enabled CF-18s to maintain extended flight times over the stadium.
The new tankers will be equipped with advanced refueling capabilities to support all NATO aircraft, addressing a deficiency in the previous fleet. Notably, the outgoing aircraft lacked the necessary boom system required for refueling various aircraft, including the C-17 cargo plane and the F-35.
In response to recent concerns about threats to world leaders’ aircraft, the RCAF confirms that the new V-VIP Airbus being refitted in Switzerland for the prime minister will feature a “self-protection suite” to enhance defense against potential missile attacks. This suite may include advanced defense mechanisms such as lasers, flares, and specialized materials to counter incoming threats.
The air force anticipates achieving initial operational capability for the CC-330 Husky fleet by 2028-29, with full operational capability for all nine aircraft by 2032-33. While the current fleet is based in Ottawa, new facilities are under construction in Trenton, Ontario, and Edmonton.
The RCAF’s existing fleet of Airbus A310s, known as the CC-150 Polaris, will remain in service until 2030. These aircraft, originally Wardair passenger jets from the late 1980s, have played a critical role in past missions, including serving the last three prime ministers. One of the A310s was involved in a parking incident in Guam in 2023, leading to its write-off due to substantial damage. The investigation into the incident highlighted issues such as inadequate parking brake design, crew fatigue, and checklist procedures.
Overall, the introduction of the new air tankers signifies a significant enhancement in Canada’s air force capabilities, bolstering its ability to support defense operations both domestically and internationally.