10FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 www.vanguardcanada.com
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Canada Commits to a Modern, Homegrown Airlift Fleet with
New Bombardier Multi-Role Aircraft
When the Government of Canada announced a major new con-
tract to deliver a fleet of Canadian-built Global 6500 aircraft
for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), it signalled more than
a procurement milestone. It marked a defining moment in the
country's push to rebuild its military capabilities, reinvigorate
its aerospace sector, and reshape how Canada buys the ca-
pabilities it needs to operate at home and abroad. Unveiled
in Mississauga in December, the decision awards Bombardier
the contract to provide six Global 6500 aircraft under the Air-
lift Capability Project – Multi-role Flight Service. As one of
the first procurements shepherded through the new Defence
Investment Agency (DIA), the initiative embodies Canada's
evolving philosophy: strategic speed, economic impact, and
a strong emphasis on Canadian-made solutions. The Global
6500 will replace the long-serving CC-144 Challenger fleet,
bringing a new generation of performance and flexibility to
missions that span the globe. These aircraft will take on ev-
erything from utility flights and aeromedical evacuations to
humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and national security opera-
tions. Initial operational capability is set for the end of 2027.
By choosing a Canadian-built fleet, we're putting our industry, our
workers, and our incredible aerospace talent front and centre. Image
source: https://x.com/Bombardier/status/199983554360184450
