As the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) prepares for the arrival of its cutting-edge CF-35A fighter jets, the Canadian government is taking step to ensure these advanced aircraft receive top-tier maintenance and support. On November 25, 2024, Ministers Jean-Yves Duclos and Bill Blair announced that L3Harris MAS, a Mirabel-based aerospace company, will serve as the strategic partner for establishing the maintenance depot for the CF-35A airframe.
“Today’s announcement is about building long-term capacity for our military, protecting our sovereignty and creating jobs across the country. Canada’s investment in the CF-35A fleet and the selection of the airframe maintenance depot strategic partner provider showcase how modern procurement strategies can support both national security and economic growth, while ensuring our military is ready for the challenges in an ever-changing world,” explained the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant.
This partnership will see L3Harris MAS collaborating with the Canadian government and the F-35 Joint Program Office to assess the requirements for the depot. These discussions will focus on the scope, costs, and operational setup of the facility, ensuring it meets both Canadian and international standards. This initiative not only strengthens Canada’s aerospace capabilities but also positions the country as a competitive player in the broader F-35 enterprise.
“Ensuring the long-term effectiveness of newly delivered capabilities is at the core of a ready and resilient defence force. By working with industry to establish this new airframe maintenance depot, we are doing our part to ensure our new fleet of CF-35A aircraft will remain ready to support operations, while also providing significant economic benefits for Canadians,” expressed the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
The move aligns with Canada’s ongoing commitment to equipping the RCAF with the resources needed for modern defence operations. By fostering early collaboration with industry, the government aims to streamline procurement processes and secure long-term infrastructure for the new fleet. The initiative also highlights Canada’s goal to maintain sovereignty in defence capabilities, ensuring the military can independently sustain its equipment while contributing to allied readiness.
“Developing and maintaining Canada’s defence industry is critical to our national security and provides economic benefits to Canadians. Today’s announcement demonstrates that our world-class Canadian industry is well positioned to continue to provide new fighter capabilities, including delivering key services right here in Canada. This will help boost cutting-edge technology in Canada’s aerospace and defence industries and position Canada for opportunities in the sustainment of fleets around the world,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
Canada’s aerospace maintenance sector is recognized globally for its expertise, with a proven track record of supporting military aircraft missions. The addition of the CF-35A project is expected to further bolster this reputation. Beyond enhancing Canada’s defence readiness, the project opens doors for Canadian companies to collaborate internationally, advancing their technological and industrial contributions to allied missions.
Economically, the acquisition and initial sustainment of the CF-35A fleet are forecasted to deliver substantial benefits, with estimates pointing to over $425 million added annually to the nation’s GDP. Additionally, the project is expected to support close to 3,300 Canadian jobs each year for 25 years, benefiting industries and partners across the value chain.
L3Harris MAS’s selection was no coincidence. The company has been a cornerstone of Canada’s fighter jet maintenance landscape, offering comprehensive repair and overhaul services for the CF-188 Hornet airframes for years. Located in one of the world’s leading aerospace hubs, L3Harris MAS boasts the experience, infrastructure, and industrial networks necessary to handle the heavy maintenance needs of the advanced CF-35A jets.
The decision aligns with Strong, Secure, Engaged, Canada’s defence policy, which emphasizes agility, flexibility, and modernization in defense procurement. By securing partnerships like this and investing in infrastructure, Canada is ensuring that its military remains equipped and ready to address evolving challenges on the global stage.
With L3Harris MAS at the helm of this critical maintenance effort, Canada takes a significant stride in supporting its military while boosting its aerospace industry’s global standing.
