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

Verified

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 acquiring a fleet of 11 MQ-9B SkyGuardian combat drones from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. for $2.49 billion.
This purchase aims to enhance interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces, fulfill North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) responsibilities, and support domestic operations like monitoring remote territories for wildfires and floods.
The comprehensive deal includes drones, ground control stations, a new control center, hangars, weapons, sustainment, and training, with initial deliveries by 2028 and full operational capability projected for 2033.

See a mistake? Contact us.

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.