Canadian Air Force Makes $2.49B MQ-9B Combat Drone Buy

The SkyGuardian fleet will increase interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces, defense officials said.

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 12:11 PM ET

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The Royal Canadian Air Force has ordered 11 MQ-9B SkyGuardian remotely piloted aircraft systems as part of its ongoing military modernization effort. [Courtesy: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc.]

Key Takeaways:

The Royal Canadian Air Force (CAF) is set to acquire 11 MQ-9B SkyGuardian combat drones from General Atomics for $2.49 billion.
These drones will enhance Canada's interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces, support North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) responsibilities, and assist in domestic civilian operations like monitoring remote territories and responding to emergencies.
The comprehensive contract includes six ground control stations, a new ground control center, two hangars, weapons, sustainment services, and training support.
Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028, with the fleet projected to achieve full operational capability by 2033.

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The Royal Canadian Air Force (CAF) is set to buy a fleet of 11 MQ-9B SkyGuardian combat drones from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), the country’s defense officials announced.

The $2.49 billion purchase of the fighter jet-sized drones will increase Canadian force interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces while also helping the country fulfill its North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) responsibilities, Canada’s Department of National Defense said. The aircraft will also be tasked with monitoring the country’s remote territories as part of civilian air operations during responses to wildfires and floods.