Search and rescue helicopter.(File photo)
The Royal Canadian Air Force at CFB Trenton will see their search and rescue services extended to at least 2040 with an upgrade of equipment.
Captain Trevor Reid, Public Affairs Officer at 8 Wing Trenton says the Cormorant Mid-Life Upgrade Project of the CH-149 Cormorant helicopter and increasing the fleet size will help to sustain their operations in Canada’s area of responsibility.
The upgrade is an element of Initiative 55 of Strong, Secure, Engaged. Currently, the project is in the final stage of the options analysis phase and it is anticipated the options analysis phase will conclude at the end of this year.
The potential re-introduction of the CH-149 Cormorant helicopter to Trenton is an option being considered and would serve to enhance search and rescue services currently being handled by CH-146 Griffon helicopters from 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron.
Capt. Reid says they expect the project to enter the definition phase early in the new year, at which point the program’s requirements would be more clearly defined.
This project would ultimately see the delivery of the first upgraded CH-149 in 2022-2023.
