As part of Canada’s ambitious push to modernize its defence capabilities, significant progress is being made at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Bagotville in Quebec. The base, already a key hub for the nation’s defense, is now the site of a major construction project—a new Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) facility. On August 12, 2024, Parliamentary Secretary Marie-France Lalonde, representing Minister of National Defence Bill Blair, officially announced the commencement of this pivotal development.
“For decades, NORAD has ensured the defence of North American aerospace. Today, we are reaffirming our commitment to this unique binational command, and investing in new infrastructure so that Canadian Armed Forces members can effectively deploy fifth-generation fighter jets in support of NORAD’s mission. Our government will continue to invest in new military infrastructure that supports the combat power of the Canadian Armed Forces,” expressed Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence.
The facility will play a critical role in enhancing the readiness and deployment capabilities of Canada’s incoming fleet of CF-35A fighter jets. These jets are integral to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) operations, and the new facility will ensure they remain in a state of perpetual readiness to protect North American airspace.
“This investment in Bagotville will enable our personnel at the base to plan, posture, and deploy our new fleet of CF-35A fighters rapidly and effectively. Today’s milestone is a clear sign of Canada’s commitment to modernizing our NORAD infrastructure and capabilities in support of the continental defence mission. In close collaboration with our American allies, our government will continue to make the necessary investments to protect North America as our continent faces new security challenges,” said the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence.
Spanning 7,400 square meters, the new QRA facility will include state-of-the-art aircraft hangars, office spaces, and quarters for personnel. The project also involves the creation of a secure, 17,000 square meter fenced compound that will encircle the facility, providing an added layer of protection and security. Once operational, the QRA facility will empower Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel to rapidly respond to potential threats, solidifying Canada’s commitment to NORAD’s critical mission.
With an estimated budget of $120 million, this construction project is not just a milestone for national defense but also a significant boost to the local economy. It is expected to sustain over 600 jobs throughout its development, further underlining its importance to the region. The contract for the facility’s design and construction has been awarded to Pomerleau Inc., a firm based in Lévis, Quebec, with completion anticipated by 2027.
This initiative is part of a broader, $38.6 billion NORAD Modernization Plan, unveiled by the Government of Canada in June 2022. This plan marks the most substantial upgrade to Canada’s NORAD capabilities in nearly 40 years, with the new QRA facility being a key component of the Defence of Canada Infrastructure Project (DCFI). The DCFI aims to enhance fighter jet infrastructure and NORAD readiness at bases across the country, ensuring the CF-35A jets are fully operational for continental defencce.
Moreover, this project supports Operation NOBLE EAGLE, NORAD’s ongoing mission to detect, deter, and defeat potential threats to the airspace of Canada and the United States. With the new facility at CFB Bagotville, Canada is taking a significant step forward in maintaining 24/7 vigilance over North American skies, showcasing its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of its citizens and allies.