OTTAWA, Ont. – The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced several expansion projects today for 8 Wing/CFB Trenton. This investment of mor re than $500 million includes infrastructure upgrades, and the expansion of the base to accommodate the relocation of Joint Task Force 2 (JTF 2).
"Trenton is one of the busiest air force bases in Canada," said Minister MacKay. "In line with the Canada First Defence Strategy, this $500 million investment will not only provide infrastructure in support of new airlift capabilities, but also expand the base in preparation for the arrival of JTF 2."
Numerous i nfrastructure projects are required to rebuild the flight line at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton to accommodate evolving tactical and strategic airlift capabilities. The projects, which will be in various planning stages over the next five years, include the rebuild ing and construction of new taxiways, ramps and aprons as well as several new maintenance hangars.
The plan to relocate JTF 2 to 8 Wing/CFB Trenton is a clear demonstration of the Government's commitment to maintain a robust counter-terroris m capability force. JTF 2 has been increasing its personnel strength and enhancing its capabilities. As a result, the unit has begun to outgrow its current location of Dwyer Hill Training Centre located in the National Capital Region. 8 Wing/CFB Trento n meets JTF 2's needs for sufficient space and specialized facilities. The relocation of the unit will take place in several years.
DND has been working with the Department of Public Works and Government Services to purchase parcels of land bordering the Wing to accommodate the operational requirements of JTF 2. It is the Department's objective to secure, through PWGSC, the necessary land requirements for the unit. 8 Wing/CFB Trenton is currently home to the CC-177 Globemaster IIIs , and will be the home of the new C-130J Hercules tactical aircraft.
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