Statement on the Congressional Notification regarding the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft

June 27, 2023

As part of its defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, the Government of Canada is seeking to replace its aging CP-140 Aurora aircraft fleet (CP-140) with a Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). The CP-140 has been in operation since 1980 and has an estimated end of service date of 2030; to extend the fleet beyond this point would entail increased maintenance and operational risk and require additional financial investments. Procuring a new fleet is required to ensure Canada’s military has the equipment it needs to continue protecting Canadian sovereignty and fulfill its international obligations alongside Canada’s allies. The government is committed to providing the RCAF with the right equipment it needs to maintain operational continuity, while seeking best value for Canadians and securing economic benefits for industry and communities across Canada.

Following engagements with industry and Canada’s closest allies, the government has determined that the P-8A Poseidon is the only readily available aircraft that meets all of the CMMA’s operational requirements, namely reconnaissance, surveillance and intelligence, anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare capabilities, and interoperability with Canada’s closest defence allies. This platform is a proven capability that is operated by several of Canada’s defence partners, including Norway, Germany and South Korea, as well as all of Canada’s Five Eyes allies: the United States (U.S.), the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

Canada has submitted a Letter of Request (LOR) via the U.S. government’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The LOR outlined Canada’s requirements, which include up to 16 aircraft, mission systems, training and training devices, associated spare parts and equipment, engineering and technical services, and initial in-service support.

On June 27, 2023, a Congressional Notification was published to inform members of the U.S. Congress and the public of the potential sale of this defence capability to Canada. This notification, which is part of the U.S. FMS process, encompasses an estimated cost for the highest quantities of all U.S. defence articles being considered for sale to Canada. Estimates typically include a substantial amount of contingency to avoid timeline risks of having to return to Congress in case of in-scope changes.

The issuance of an LOR and the publication of a Congressional Notification do not commit Canada to purchasing the P-8A Poseidon, and Canada continues to assess its options. The final decision will be based on Canada’s assessment of the offered capability, availability, pricing and benefits to Canadian industry and communities.

The Government of Canada will continue to provide updates and keep Canadians informed of its progress as it moves forward on replacing the aging CP-140.