Today, helicopters and personnel from the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 450 and 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadrons completed an exercise to validate their capabilities in anticipation of an eventual deployment of a Task Force to Mali.

“The advanced tactical aviation capabilities of the Royal Canadian Air Force will make an invaluable contribution to the United Nations Peace Support Operations in Mali. The Task Force is well equipped and has formed as an effective composite aviation detachment to fully empower our airmen and airwomen to deliver their support to MINUSMA.”

– Lieutenant-General Al Meinzinger, Commander, Royal Canadian Air Force

“The validation of the Forward Aeromedical Evacuation capability and Task Force represent a critical step in our preparations to deploy to Mali. Participation in this exercise ensures that RCAF tactical aviation aircraft and personnel are prepared to uphold the commitment to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), as directed by the Government of Canada. 

– Colonel Chris McKenna, Commander (designate), Task Force Mali

• The Task Force will provide two CH-147F Chinook helicopters from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, based in Petawawa, Ont. and four CH-146 Griffon helicopters from 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, based in Edmonton, Alta.  Aircraft spares could also be made available to the Aviation Detachment.

• In Mali, the CH-146 Griffon helicopters will serve as an armed escort for the Chinooks as they carry out critical mission requirements as part of MINUSMA.

• Canadian Armed Forces will provide MINUSMA with a number of medically-trained personnel who will facilitate medical evacuations for partners and allied forces on the ground and provide logistical support for the mission.

• The CH-147F Chinook is an advanced multi-mission, medium to heavy-lift transport helicopter. It is used to transport equipment and personnel during domestic or deployed operations. Since its most recent upgrade, the CH-147F has increased its internal fuel capacity, allowing it to fly twice as far as previous models. 

• The CH-146 Griffon is a Utility Tactical Transport Helicopter (UTTH) that has been in service since 1995. The Griffon's primary role is tactical transportation of troops and material. It is also used at home and abroad for: search and rescue (SAR) missions, surveillance and reconnaissance, counter-drug operations and armed escort for other helicopters.

• Canada’s contribution will join 57 MINUSMA partner countries in their continued efforts to bring sustainable peace and stability to Mali and the Sahel. 

Associated links

• Canada Announces Second Peacekeeping Smart Pledge
• 1 Wing Kingston
• 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron
• 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron
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• Imagery

Sub-Lieutenant Melanie Aqiqi
RCAF Public Affairs Officer
Phone : 613-558-6591
Email : melanie.aqiqi@forces.gc.ca 

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca