In an important ceremony held at 17 Wing/Canadian Forces Base Winnipeg, Major-General Chris McKenna officially took over leadership of 1 Canadian Air Division (CAD), the Canadian NORAD Region (CANR), the Joint Force Air Component (JFAC), and the Search and Rescue Region Trenton from Major-General Iain Huddleston. This transition marks a significant moment for the Canadian Armed Forces, as it was overseen by top military officials including General Gregory Guillot, Commander of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD); Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF); and Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander of the Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC).
“The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) was truly fortunate to have had Major-General (MGen) Huddleston command 1 Canadian Air Division (1CAD). As his predecessor, I know how challenging this role is, and MGen Huddleston’s service as commander was outstanding. I am also very pleased to welcome MGen McKenna to his new command. Having just served as a member of my team in Ottawa, I know he is the right person to lead 1 CAD during this unprecedented period of modernization,” expressed Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander, Royal Canadian Air Force.
Prior to this new role, MGen McKenna served as the Director General Air and Space Force Development, where his contributions were pivotal in the enhancement and procurement of various advanced capabilities for the RCAF. These include the CC-330 Husky Strategic Transport and Tanker Capability, the P-8 Poseidon Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft, and the Remotely Piloted Aircraft System, among others.
“Continuity of command during leader transition ensures stability, maintains mission integrity, and fosters future growth. As we farewell Major-General Huddleston and welcome Major-General McKenna, I have no doubt that the mission of the Canadian NORAD Region has essential stability and CANR will continue to be professionally and expertly led,” said General Gregory M. Guillot, Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command.
With a background as a pilot of the CH-146 Griffon and CH-147F Chinook, MGen McKenna’s career is distinguished by his command of 1 Wing, the tactical aviation wing of the RCAF. He has also served as the Air Task Force Commander for the United Nations’ Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and worked closely with Canada’s Special Operations Forces. His extensive experience includes multiple deployments to Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Mali, where he has commanded at every level within the tactical aviation community.
“The Joint Force Air Component Commander is one of the most challenging command roles in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). During Major-General (MGen) Huddleston’s time in command, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has maintained a high operational tempo at home and abroad; this is a testament to the professionalism of our members and to the leadership of MGen Huddleston. MGen Huddleston has done a tremendous job in command of air operations, and I look forward to working with MGen McKenna as we continue to defend Canada and our interests around the world,” conveyed Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command.
This change of command signifies a new chapter for the Canadian Armed Forces, reflecting a continuation of leadership excellence and strategic development within the RCAF and its allied operations.
More significant quotes about the change in command:
“It is truly humbling to be entrusted with the responsibility of commanding 1 Canadian Air Division, Canadian NORAD Region, Joint Force Air Component and Search and Rescue Region Trenton. The dedication, professionalism, and courage of the members under my command reflect the very best of the Canadian Armed Forces, and I look forward to working with you as we continue to deliver air power for the Government of Canada,” said Major-General Chris McKenna, incoming Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division, Canadian NORAD Region, Joint Force Air Component Commander, and Commander of Search and Rescue Region Trenton.
“To the members of 1 Canadian Air Division, Canadian NORAD Region, Joint Force Air Component and Search and Rescue Region Trenton, I am extremely grateful for everything you have done over the last two years. Leading you in the delivery of air power has been a highlight of my career. You have set an extremely high standard in the planning and execution of our critical and enduring mission to keep Canada and Canadians safe. Whether through search-and-rescue here at home, defending North America under the auspices of NORAD, supporting Ukraine’s efforts to counter Russian aggression, or working alongside our international allies in the Indo-Pacific, excellence has been your hallmark. I will certainly miss this role and this team, and I look forward to seeing what new heights you reach under the command of Major-General McKenna,” said Major-General Iain Huddleston, outgoing Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division, Canadian NORAD Region, Joint Force Air Component Commander, and Commander of Search and Rescue Region Trenton.