C-295 aircraft

Airbus Defence and Space has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Provincial Aerospace (PAL) to compete for the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) fixed-wing search-and-rescue (FWSAR) project.

Under the terms of the agreement, PAL will provide in-service support (ISS) and other expertise for the fleet of C295 aircraft being offered by Airbus for the multi-billion dollar programme.

Airbus Defence and Space Military Aircraft Commercial head Antonio Barberan said PAL’s proven in-service support capabilities and world-class expertise as an integrator of advanced technology systems make it a strong addition to the company’s C295 team.

Barberan said, "The C295 is the world leader in military search-and-rescue, maritime patrol and medium transport with over 130 aircraft sold in 19 countries.

"Together with our Canadian partners, we are offering a proven, reliable and low-risk solution to Canada’s fixed-wing SAR needs."

Provincial Aerospace Business Development and Government Relations senior vice-president Keith Stoodley said the company is partnering to propose a SAR aircraft and mission system combination that is already in operation in several countries.

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"We are offering a proven, reliable and low-risk solution to Canada’s fixed-wing SAR needs."

"Moreover, Provincial Aerospace has the experience and innovative spirit to ensure the fleet of C295 SAR aircraft will continue to serve Canadians well into the future," Stoodley said.

Launched in 2002, the FWSAR project aims to replace RCAF’s ageing CC-115 Buffalo and 13 CC-130 Hercules search-and-rescue (SAR) aircraft fleet.

Also pursued by Alenia Aermacchi, Viking Air, Lockheed Martin, Embraer and Bell-Boeing, the FWSAR contract was anticipated to be awarded in early 2014, with delivery of the first aircraft expected in 2017.

The Airbus C295 team also includes other Canadian companies, namely Pratt & Whitney Canada, CAE, L-3 Wescam and Vector Aerospace.


Image: Airbus Defence and Space is offering its C-295 aircraft for Royal Canadian Air Force’s fixed-wing search-and-rescue project. Photo: courtesy of Jwnabd.

Defence Technology