RCAF Today

General August 26, 2020 Exercise Arctic Edge: Making magic in the Arctic

The Canadian Armed Forces often integrate into coalition operations with specialized capabilities. On Exercise Arctic Edge, the RCAF and Army linked in a whole new way.

Allan also said that both Cyclone manufacturer Sikorsky and BAE, which built the helicopter’s flight control system, are “fully engaged” in the ongoing investigation into a March 9 incident that saw a Cyclone experience a “momentary change in the descent rate” during a training mission. DND Photo

Military April 30, 2020 5 missing Cyclone crew members identified

The Department of National Defence has now released the names of five missing crewmembers who were flying with Sub-Lieutenant Abbigail Cowbrough, whose death has been confirmed.

Military April 28, 2020 Hornets fly over Toronto during NORAD exercise

The fighter jets were conducting a North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) training exercise, practising response procedures in high-density airspace.

Military March 5, 2020 RCAF reports personnel ‘plateau’

The decrease in member attrition rates is being linked to a number of factors, but it’s a welcome sign that some Royal Canadian Air Force retention measures are having an impact.

To celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2018, 430 Squadron created a specially painted Ch-146 Griffon with a falcon on the side -- representing the gyrfalcon from the squadron's emblem. The helicopter made numerous appearances during the year, including at the 2018 Royal International Air Tattoo in the U.K. Mike Reyno Photo

General July 29, 2019 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron: Proud and engaged

In spite of frequent deployments, 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron has retained its experienced personnel. Its secret? The unit is tight-knit, taking pride in its unique language and culture.

Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) is an ambitious program that intends to capitalize on new training technologies and teaching methodologies. Mike Luedey Photo

Military July 23, 2019 Next-gen aircrew training

It’s complicated, it’s multifaceted, and it comes with high standards, but it’s a lucrative contract to the company that can integrate three distinct programs into one training system. Here’s what the RCAF requires.

CF-188 Hornets from 401 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alta. Mike Reyno Photo

General July 17, 2019 The Rubik’s Cube of fighter procurement

Politicization of the CF-188 Hornet replacement process is harming the RCAF’s ability to select the future fighter the next generation of aviators requires, writes Alan Stephenson.

Two RCAF CF-188 Hornet fighters from 433 Tactical Fighter Squadron fly over Iceland during an Operation Reassurance surveillance mission in 2017. Cpl Gary Calve Photo

Military July 15, 2019 Inside the Combined Aerospace Operations Centre

Created a decade ago to provide greater command and control for Air Force assets, the Combined Aerospace Operations Centre is a hub of activity that never sleeps.

The Pilatus PC-21 military trainer debuted in North America at the 2019 Saskatchewan Airshow. Krystal Wilson Photo

Military July 8, 2019 Pilatus PC-21 military trainer makes North American debut in Moose Jaw

The PC-21 is being positioned as a possible replacement for the RCAF's Grob 120A basic trainer as well as the more advanced CT-156 Harvard II and CT-155 Hawk.

Military May 29, 2019 AETE testing upgraded Australian F-18 software compatibility

The Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment wants to ensure that Canadian software is fully compatible with the jets' remaining Australian hardware and systems.

Military February 1, 2019 Romania to succeed Canada in Mali

Canadian Armed Forces helicopters and support personnel stationed in Mali will be replaced by Romanian troops in July 2019.

Military January 2, 2019 RCAF commander recaps 2018

We can honestly say that 2018 has been an extraordinary year for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

An F-5 aircraft (officially designated as the CF-116 Freedom Fighter) from 434 “Bluenose” Squadron flies over the Bluenose II in a circa 1975 photo. DND Photo

Military July 23, 2018 434 Squadron reformed as test and evaluation centre

At a ceremony at 8 Wing Trenton, Ont., on May 31, the Royal Canadian Air Force reformed the 434 “Bluenose” Squadron as 434 Operational Test & Evaluation Squadron.

General June 6, 2018 Operation Overlord: D-Day Remembered

The D-Day assault was a huge and complex undertaking—a multinational, combined operation involving hundreds of thousands of sailors, soldiers and airmen.