Canada’s air force is set to receive its first new air tanker by the end of next year, which is crucial for refueling fighter jets in the Arctic. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has provided details on the CC-330 Husky fleet, replacing the aging Airbus 310s, which are essential for the air force’s global operations, including troop transport and VIP flights.
The Department of National Defence confirmed that the initial new aircraft will be handed over to the RCAF in late 2027. Canada recently acquired nine Airbus A330s, costing around $3.6 billion, including five used jets with minimal service history and four brand-new planes.
Currently, three of the used Airbus planes have been delivered and are being used for passenger transport, including the prime minister’s travels. The fourth aircraft is undergoing maintenance in Mirabel Airport, while the fifth is being converted into an air tanker in Spain. The first new tanker is undergoing testing in Spain, and the other three are in production in Toulouse, France.
The RCAF’s CF-18s and upcoming F-35s rely on air tankers to extend their operational range over the Arctic. The new tankers are equipped with the necessary boom and hoses to refuel all NATO aircraft, addressing the limitations of the older aircraft they are replacing.
The new V-VIP Airbus, being refitted for the prime minister, will feature a “self-protection suite” to defend against potential missile threats. The system includes advanced technologies like lasers, flares, and decoy measures. The air force anticipates that these security enhancements will be detectable on the aircraft’s exterior.
The RCAF plans to achieve initial operational capability for the CC-330 Husky fleet by 2028-29, with full operational capability expected by 2032-33. The air force is currently based in Ottawa, with new facilities under construction in Trenton, Ontario, and Edmonton.
The older fleet of Airbus A310s, known as the CC-150 Polaris, will remain in service until 2030. One A310 was involved in an incident in Guam in 2023, leading to its write-off. The investigation into the incident highlighted issues with parking procedures, crew fatigue, and checklist protocols.
In conclusion, the RCAF is gearing up for enhanced capabilities with the introduction of new air tankers and advanced security systems, ensuring operational readiness for the future.