Question Period Note: CH-148 Cyclone Tail Cracks

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About

Reference number:
DND-2022-QP-00012
Date received:
Dec 6, 2021
Organization:
National Defence
Name of Minister:
Anand, Anita (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of National Defence

Issue/Question:

Why is this Government proceeding with the procurement of Cyclone helicopters when they continue to experience technical and maintenance issues?

Suggested Response:

  • CH-148 Cyclones are a leading-edge maritime helicopter that operate day or night providing critical capabilities to support missions in Canada and around the world.
  • During routine maintenance, National Defence detected cracks in the tails of nineteen CH-148 Cyclone aircraft.
  • We are currently working with the manufacturer to repair all aircraft and anticipate repairing the first few aircraft within the upcoming days.
  • As with all our aircraft, we will continue to monitor, and maintain, the CH-148 Cyclone fleet to ensure that the safety of aircraft and crew is paramount.
  • National Defence remains confident in the CH-148 Cyclone aircraft and its ability to assist Canadians across the country in times of need.

Background:

Quick Facts

Fleet procurement:
* CH-148 Cyclone fleet: 28 aircraft procured
* Acquisition cost: $3.2 billion
* Cost for major in-service support until 2038: $5.8 billion.

Delivery:
* Contract award: 2004
* First delivery: 6 Cyclones in 2015
* Deliveries to date: 24 Cyclones (23 in service)*
* Final delivery: June 2022
* Full operational capability: December 2022 [under review]

*one aircraft was lost in an accident in April 2020.

Responsible Principals: Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel), Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

Additional Information:

Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel), Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)