features

General August 9, 2019 De Havilland reborn in Downsview

The new De Havilland Aircraft of Canada builds on a proud legacy as it assumes responsibility for production and support of Bombardier’s Dash 8 turboprop family.

Waterloo Warbirds aimed to make the paint schemes on each aircraft as eye-catching as possible -- such as the Ct-133's bright blue "Mako Shark" livery (foreground). Mike Reyno Photo

General August 8, 2019 Waterloo Warbirds: History in flight

Waterloo Warbirds operates and maintains a diverse fleet of vintage jets – and its team members are inviting all warbird enthusiasts to live the experience alongside them.

Two CF-188 Hornets perform an air refuel with a CC-130T Hercules on a flight from Canada to Iceland in April 2011 to join Task Force Iceland in support of Operation Ignition. Sgt Dwayne Janes Photo

General August 6, 2019 435 Transport and Rescue Squadron: Double mission, single focus

As it marks its 75th anniversary, 435 Transport and Rescue Squadron is delivering two top priority missions while preparing to become the key piece in the RCAF transition to the new CC-295.

444 Sqn provides rapid response during training missions at 5 Wing Goose Bay using three CH-146 Griffon helicopters, also performing utility and SAR operations throughout the year. Geoff Goodyear Photo

General August 2, 2019 444 Combat Support Squadron: Combat support from above

It may operate over some of the most challenging terrain, but 444 Combat Support Squadron has evolved from flying fighter jets to become a critical helicopter unit supporting 5 Wing exercises.

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.

General July 22, 2019 A northern light: Yellowknife Airport

Yellowknife Airport in Canada’s Northwest Territories continues to be a major driver of the Northern economy.

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.