Canada’s air force is set to receive the first of four new air tankers by the end of next year. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has provided details on the state of the CC-330 Husky fleet, which is replacing the aging Airbus 310s. These wide-body jets serve as the backbone of the air force’s intercontinental fleet and are crucial for refueling fighter jets in the Arctic, a key aspect of Canada’s defense strategy.
A Department of National Defence spokesperson revealed that the initial new aircraft delivery to the RCAF is scheduled for late 2027. In July 2023, Canada acquired nine Airbus A330s for approximately $3.6 billion, including five used jets with minimal service history from Kuwait Airways and four brand new planes. The department had not previously disclosed the number of new aircraft expected to be delivered by the following year.
Currently, three of the used Airbus planes have arrived, maintaining their original airline configuration. While these aircraft are currently utilized for passenger transport, including the prime minister, one has entered scheduled maintenance, and another is undergoing interior and defense upgrades. The first new-build tanker is undergoing testing in Spain, with the other three new builds in production in Toulouse, France.
The RCAF’s fleet of CF-18s and upcoming F-35s rely on air tankers to extend their patrol capabilities over the Arctic. The new tankers will be equipped with the necessary boom and hoses to refuel all NATO aircraft, a feature lacking in the aircraft they are replacing. This upgrade is essential for supporting extended flight missions for fighter jets.
In light of recent discussions on threats to world leaders’ aircraft, the RCAF confirms that the new V-VIP Airbus, currently being retrofitted for the prime minister, will be equipped with a “self-protection suite” to enhance defense capabilities against potential missile attacks. This system includes advanced technology designed to counter incoming threats.
The air force projects that the CC-330 Husky fleet will achieve initial operational capability by 2028-29, with full operational capability expected by 2032-33. The new facilities are under construction in Trenton, Ont., and Edmonton to accommodate the relocated jets. Meanwhile, the older fleet of five Airbus A310s, known as the CC-150 Polaris, will remain in service until 2030.
An incident involving one of the A310s in Guam led to its write-off in 2023. Following a parking lot mishap where it collided with a French cargo plane, resulting in significant damage to both aircraft, a flight safety investigation identified contributing factors such as inadequate parking measures and crew fatigue. Despite this setback, the remaining three A310s will continue in service until 2030.
