Canadian business jet manufacturer, Bombardier, has expressed its disappointment after the Canadian government announced that it had entered into a formal agreement with Boeing to acquire up to 16 maritime patrol aircraft. According to Bombardier, the government made this decision without going through an open and fair competition process, and without fully considering the capabilities of local multi-mission aircraft.
Equally disappointed with the agreement are General Dynamics Mission Systems – Canada, along with other industry leaders and suppliers, as stated by Bombardier.
Bombardier mentioned that it had a “game changer” solution to offer to the government, but unfortunately, no additional opportunities were given to Bombardier or its partners.
Earlier today, Canadian officials confirmed that they will pay up to 10.4 billion Canadian dollars ($7.65 billion) for the Boeing planes and associated parts.
The delivery of the Boeing aircraft is scheduled to begin in 2026 at a rate of one plane per month, with all planes expected to be delivered by fall 2027.
The Boeing Poseidon P-8A aircraft will eventually replace the aging fleet of Lockheed CP-140 Aurora, which is currently being operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force.
In June, the U.S. State Department approved the possible sale of the Boeing aircraft to Canada. Defense Minister Bill Blair emphasized that these new aircraft will help Canada fulfill its obligations under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and North American Aerospace Defense Command.