Canada is to procure two new Bombardier Challenger 650 business jets to replace a pair of older 601-model aircraft that have been in service for more than 30 years.
Canada is to acquire two new Challenger 605 jets (pictured), to replace two of four older 601s it currently operates.
The Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) announced on 6 June that the procurement will allow for a continuation of capability for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) with the retirement of the 1980s-vintage Challenger 601s.
βThe replacement ensures CAF can continue to operate a modern and flexible utility flight service fleet that serves a variety of roles β including reconnaissance and liaison missions with international partners, and the speedy deployment of specialised capabilities and expertise, including the Disaster Assistance Response Team,β the DND said.
As well as providing an international disaster relief utility, the Challenger 601s and the 605s will afford the RCAF an aero medical evacuation and VIP-transport capability.
Delivery of the two new Challengers is expected during the third quarter of 2020 with an initial operational capability targeted a few weeks later. The value of the contract for the two aircraft, initial training, and spare parts is approximately CND105 million (USD78 million) before taxes.
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