Vanguard Magazine

28 APRIL/MAY 2022 www.vanguardcanada.com PERSPECTIVE Sponsored Content "We are very proud of the heritage and long history of partnership we have with the RCAF," said Ugo Paniconi, General Manager, L3Harris in Mirabel. "If you look across our current business portfolio, you may be surprised at the breadth and scope of our support. We are the leading ISS provider to the RCAF and we look forward to continuing this support for many decades." Last year marked 35 years supporting the RCAF's only fighter aircraft fleet, the vener- able CF-18. Canada acquired the CF-18 in the early 1980s and secured the neces- sary aircraft data access rights allowing for a national approach to fleet sustainment. This positioned L3Harris to support the RCAF with significant fleet structural life exten- sion and avionics modernization programs. Ultimately, this extended the operational life of this aircraft by 20-25 years and expanded the value of Canada's investment. Fighter-Specialized Facilities L3Harris' principal aircraft sustainment facility located in Mirabel, Quebec, is home to a passionate, committed, and skilled work force of engineers, techni- cians and support staff. Located in the heart of one of the world's largest aero- space clusters, it provides an extensive industrial network of suppliers, partners and recruiting sources. The facility was designed specifically for fighter aircraft support and is truly unique. Fighter aircraft sustainment requires a level of specialized capability that sets it apart from other military or commer- cial aircraft requirements. Located at the Montréal Mirabel International Airport, this facility offers a wealth of discriminat- ing features, including direct access to two 12,000-foot runways with mobile arresting gear, restricted airspace for flight testing, and security-accredited facilities uniquely designed for current and future Fighter sustainment requirements. This purpose- designed facility is the ideal location for an airframe depot to support Canada's future fighter fleet, ensuring sovereign sustainment of this critical fleet within our own borders. World Leading Capabilities L3Harris is a world leader in develop- ing and implementing fighter structural W ith an expected govern- ment decision on its selection of Canada's next fighter aircraft in the coming months, the time is right to discuss future fighter aircraft maintenance and support for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)'s next fighter fleet. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has kept many of our lives seemingly frozen in time for the past two years, recent geopo- litical events are a timely reminder of how important it is for Canada to have the capa- bility to protect its borders, as well as meet its NORAD and NATO commitments. In this context, a modern and capable fighter aircraft is a critical national asset required to protect peace and security. Acquiring the latest generation aircraft is a critical first step, but just as important is determining the 'sustainment,' or 'In-Service Support (ISS),' solution. To ensure these critical assets remain mission ready and affordable over the operational life of the fleet, Canada must depend on trusted, in-country part- ners to provide sovereign support and resil- ient supply chains. This approach leverages Canada's past investment to establish a world-class ISS industrial capability, includ- ing a national airframe depot, and secures the future of this industry with thousands of high-tech, high-value jobs for Canadians. Successful History For more than 35 years, the RCAF has trusted L3Harris to provide industry-leading ISS expertise and value-added support for the sustainment of its CF-18 fighter aircraft fleet. Over time, our partnership with the RCAF has grown significantly, reflecting our commitment to support Canada's 'Strong, Secure, Engaged' defence policy. This rela- tionship has developed into a unique capa- bility and expertise that clearly positions L3Harris as the only Canadian fighter aircraft centre of excellence. CANADA'S ONLY FIGHTER AIRCRAFT CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE THE FUTURE FIGHTER CAPABILITY PROGRAM PROMISES TO BECOME A REALITY IN 2022.

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