Progress is being made on Canada’s Remotely Piloted Plane System (RPAS) challenge as the primary two MQ-9B drones have entered manufacturing at Basic Atomics Aeronautical Methods Inc. (GA-ASI) in San Diego.
These plane might be essential for testing that’s set to start in 2026, marking an necessary milestone in Canada’s efforts to boost its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
The Canadian authorities awarded a contract to GA-ASI for the RPAS challenge in December 2023, alongside an settlement with america for the switch of important challenge elements. The challenge will finally present Canada with a complete of 11 long-range, long-endurance MQ-9B plane, designed for ISR missions and precision strikes. The contract additionally contains six floor management stations, weapons, essential infrastructure, and long-term sustainment assist.
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In accordance with Canada’s Assistant Deputy Minister of Materiel (ADM(Mat)), the MQ-9B plane are anticipated to considerably enhance the nation’s protection posture, offering sturdy ISR capabilities together with precision strike choices. The MQ-9B is extensively thought to be a flexible asset, able to supporting a spread of navy and strategic operations.
The plane might be based mostly at two main areas: 14 Wing Greenwood in Nova Scotia and 19 Wing Comox in British Columbia, with management operations managed from Ottawa, Ontario. Infrastructure building for housing and working these remotely piloted methods is slated to start in 2025, whereas the primary deliveries of the RPAS are anticipated in 2028.
“Progress is underway for the Remotely Piloted Plane System (RPAS) challenge! The primary two MQ-9B plane have entered manufacturing at Basic Atomics Aeronautical Methods Inc. (GA-ASI) in San Diego. These airframes will assist testing set to start in 2026,” ADM(Mat) posted on social media, underscoring the early progress within the manufacturing section.
The MQ-9B, manufactured by Basic Atomics, is thought for its superior ISR capabilities and precision strike potential. This drone system, already in use by a number of NATO nations, gives enhanced situational consciousness and contributes to strategic deterrence. Canada’s acquisition of those drones represents a notable step ahead in modernizing its navy capabilities and enhancing cooperation with key allies, notably america.
