Vanguard Magazine

10 JUNE/JULY 2021 www.vanguardcanada.com S SIT REP Peraton awarded one-year contract extension for the CF-18 Avionics Optimized Weapon System Support program The Government of Canada has awarded Peraton a $50 million, one-year contract extension for the CF-18 Avionics Optimized Weapon System Support program. Peraton, as the prime contractor, provides comprehensive in-service and integrated logistics support for the full suite of fighter aircraft avion- ics and associated test equipment for the CF-18 fleet. "With a total lifetime contract value now surpassing $396 million, this contract extension further solidifies Peraton's continued support to the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces," said Greg Nelson, Acting Director, Peraton Canada. According to a news release, the company has been a dedicated part- ner to the Canadian Armed Forces and Royal Canadian Air Force in sup- porting Canada's fighter fleet. Peraton's performance-based logistics expertise is designed to optimize program performance and can be rep- licated across any defence platform. "Peraton is trusted by the Canadian Armed Forces to deliver reliable, repeatable and operational in-service support for mission-critical environ- ments," said Mark Thompson, Vice President and General Manager, Mission Support Business Unit. "We are proud to be the prime contractor for the sustainment services of avionic systems, electronic warfare, and auto- matic test equipment on the Royal Canadian Air Force's CF-18 fighter fleet." The CF-18 fighter aircraft has life expectancy projections through 2032. Canada plans to begin replacing the aging fleet with new advanced fighter jets under the Future Fighter Capability Project (FFCP), with an expected initial article delivery date of 2025. Peraton is a partner on mul- tiple FFCP bids. Babcock and Leonardo to join for Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program Babcock Canada and Leonardo Canada have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to create a Canadian joint venture to pursue Canada's Future Air- crew Training Program (FAcT). This partnership, according to a news release, will ensure that the FAcT program will benefit from the expertise and innovation made by two global players, each of which has over 70 years of aircrew training experience delivered around the world. The companies' experience as leading providers of civil and military fixed-wing, rotary-wing and mission training services will help them to offer a modern and comprehensive solution to the Royal Canadian Air Force, if selected for this program. "Leonardo as a world leader in the training sector can cover the entire pilot training syllabus with a unique range allowing the training syllabus to be tailored to air force requirements. A complete Ground Based Train- ing System (GBTS), which is perfectly integrated with the platforms, able to ensure both high-quality training and strong operating efficiency, complements the aircraft," according to the news release. "Platforms and systems offer customers worldwide a turnkey training solution that can guarantee the highest quality standards at every training stage. With a long heritage and its expertise in military pilot training, Leonardo has built about 2,000 trainers that have been sold to more than 40 coun- tries." "From basic to advanced flying training for air forces, navies, and armies, Babcock delivers unrivalled technical instruction across multi- ple locations and aircraft types. Whether it is providing technical training instruction, developing training materials, or maintaining critical train- ing assets, Babcock is trusted by its customers to deliver world-class training solutions. Babcock Canada and Leonardo Canada are strongly committed to building a strong Canadian Team reinforcing their existing long-term relationships and partnerships with the Canadian Government and Canadian industries." Canada is looking to procure a comprehensive aircrew training pro- gram that provides aircraft, ground-based training systems, civilian in- structors, as well as other essential services, such as air traffic control, aircraft, and airfield maintenance, accommodation, and food services for the Royal Canadian Air Force. The 20-year contract is expected to be awarded in 2023. Image: Babcock Canada. Image: Royal Canadian Airforce CF-18 Super Hornet Jet.

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