Airbus Military and Vector Aerospace Engine Services – Atlantic (ES-A) will partner to help secure aerospace jobs in Prince Edward Island, the two companies announced last week at a ceremony in Summerside.
The partnership is based on Airbus Military’s pursuit of the fixed-wing search and rescue program and would see ES-A provide engine maintenance for the C295. If Airbus is successful, the deal would be worth almost $150 million over the 20-year life of the contract.
“This partnership will help bring long-term high-technology aerospace jobs to Prince Edward Island,” said Antonio R. Barberán, senior vice president for Airbus Military. “This is in keeping with Airbus’ already outstanding commitment to Canadian content for our aircraft.”
“We are very proud to have built a reputation for excellent service and support right here in PEI. Our partnership with Airbus Military, and the business it brings, on a project as important as the FWSAR program reinforces that,” said Jeff Poirier, president of ES-A.
The C295 already has a global footprint, with 123 aircraft now sold to 16 different countries. The aircraft also features strong Canadian content, including the Pratt & Whitney Canada engine, electro/optical sensors by L-3 Wescam and the simulators from CAE. Discovery Air has been tapped to provide in-service support for the aircraft.