The Canadian Government has selected Airbus Defence and Space's C295W aircraft for its fixed-wing search-andrescue (FWSAR) programme.

The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) will receive 16 C295Ws in total, as part of the FWSAR programme.

The aircraft will be delivered starting three years after contract award.

On entering operational service, the C295Ws will join five Airbus CC-150 aircraft currently used in the air-to-air refuelling, transport, and VIP travel roles.

Airbus Defence and Space Canada head Simon Jacques said: "We are acutely conscious of the importance of search and rescue in Canada's vast and challenging territory and we are honoured to have been selected to provide the aircraft and service to ensure that the role is carried out effectively.

"About 20% of the aircraft is already Canadian, meaning that it already serves as a global ambassador for the skills, innovation and expertise of Canadians.

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"Now it will get to serve them directly."

Each C295W will be modified to suit the needs of SAR operations in the country.

AirPro, a joint venture between Airbus Defence and Space and PAL Aerospace, will provide service support for the aircraft, under the contract.

"About 20% of the aircraft is already Canadian, meaning that it already serves as a global ambassador for the skills, innovation and expertise of Canadians."

The aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada engines and electro-optical systems for FWSAR will be provided by L3 Wescam.

Pilots and technicians for the aircraft will be trained at a new facility developed by CAE.

Upon finalisation, the contract will bring the total number of C295s ordered by 25 countries to 185.


Image: The C295W aircraft. Photo:© Airbus DS.