“I was very happy to visit CFB Petawawa today where I met Canadian Army personnel stationed there and learned about how what they do contributes to the defence of Canada and North America.
Since my appointment as Associate Minister of National Defence earlier this year, I have had the privilege of visiting several Armed Forces bases across the country. In March, I visited CFB Esquimalt for the welcoming home of HMCS Regina and her crew after eight months at sea on a counter-terrorism operation. In April I was able to visit 19 Wing Comox, where I met Royal Canadian Air Force members and visited the 407 Long Range Patrol Squadron.
In meeting with our soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen I’ve heard many stories about how equipment directly contributes to their ability to safely and successfully complete operations. For me, these stories have only further underscored the fact that as minister responsible for military procurement, I have the opportunity to ensure that Canadian Armed Forces personnel have the tools they need for operations at home and abroad. I take great pride in the role the Prime Minister has given me in this regard, which is why I am honoured to announce that the first Chinook F-model helicopter will arrive in Petawawa tomorrow.
This procurement is just one among many examples of projects that have been delivered to our Armed Forces on–time and within budget. The delivery of the first Chinook directly contributes to the Canadian Armed Forces ability to achieve the goals set out in the Canada First Defence Strategy. Specifically, the Canadian variant of the CH-147F will provide a quantum leap in the military’s rapid response and heavy-lift capability.
Acquisitions such as strategic and tactical airlift, land combat vehicles, the rebuilding of Royal Canadian Navy fleets, and the Chinook helicopters all contribute to a modern, effective Canadian Armed Forces.
I am honoured to be making this announcement on my first visit to a Canadian Army base and look forward to the opportunity to make many more base and wing visits during my time as the Associate Minister of National Defence.”
