L3Harris has provided Canada with an advanced airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capability by delivering three integrated King Air 350ER ISR aircraft to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), the company said in a press release.
These aircraft were specifically modified at L3Harris' aircraft integration center in Greenville, Texas, aiming to enhance Canada's ISR capabilities.
The delivery was made in connection with Canada's manned airborne ISR (MAISR) project.
MAISR, facilitated through a Foreign Military Sale under the oversight of the U.S. Army’s Fixed Wing Project Office, aims to supply the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) with three swiftly deployable ISR aircraft. This initiative seeks to bolster security measures and elevate mission efficiency for Canada.
“These deliveries represent another milestone in our commitment to helping create a safer world and more secure future,” Jason Lambert, head of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, said.
“We’re pleased to collaborate with the U.S. Army to enhance ISR mission capabilities for our Canadian allies,” he noted.
Consul General of Canada Susan Harper, meanwhile, who spoke at the delivery ceremony, said: “At a time when defence and security needs are changing faster than ever, Canada and the United States are investing in each other to keep us strong at home, secure in North America, and engaged in the world.”
“This state-of-the-art aircraft is a shining example of our dedication to ensuring our militaries have what they need to defend our homelands. And we made it together. Built in Greenville, Texas with an airframe from Kansas, an engine from Quebec, and systems from Tennessee, Iowa and Texas, the CE-145C Vigilance aircraft provides enhanced situational awareness and decision making for our countries’ leadership during critical operations. Canada and the U.S. enjoy unprecedented interoperability – a strategic choice that enriches both countries’ defence, security, and economic frameworks,” Harper said.
The CE-145C Vigilance introduces new capabilities tailored for the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, which demands an aircraft capable of swiftly achieving tactical, operational, and strategic objectives during operations. MAISR will furnish a readily accessible, mission-customized, and sustainable manned airborne ISR capability to fulfill this requirement and advance the CAF's airborne ISR capabilities.
