Canada's first combat drone program has officially begun production, marking a major milestone in the country's military modernization efforts. However, extensive testing and modifications will be needed before the aircraft can operate effectively in Arctic conditions.
The $2.49 billion program will deliver 11 MQ-9B drones from General Atomics, with the first two units currently being manufactured in San Diego. These initial aircraft will serve as test vehicles starting in 2026, with full operational capability expected by 2028.
A key challenge lies in adapting the drones for Canada's harsh northern environment. The aircraft will require specialized satellite communications equipment and antenna systems not previously integrated into the MQ-9B platform to operate at high latitudes.
The drones will operate from four northern bases in Yellowknife, Inuvik, Iqaluit and Goose Bay, supported by new infrastructure under Canada's $39-billion NORAD modernization initiative. Additional drone facilities are under construction in British Columbia and Nova Scotia, along with a central control center in Ottawa.
The Greenwood, Nova Scotia site will house eight drones - four operational and four in storage - at an estimated cost of $100 million. The Comox, BC facility, budgeted at $53 million, will host the remaining three aircraft and accommodate 25 personnel.
All drone pilots will be stationed at the Ottawa headquarters, which will feature six drone cockpits and two simulators for its 198 personnel. The facility is currently in final planning stages with construction set to begin next year.
The MQ-9Bs will be equipped with Hellfire missiles and Mk82 bombs for overseas military operations. Domestically, the drones will monitor coastlines and support civilian emergency response during wildfires and floods.
This ambitious program represents Canada's first operational military drone capability, though significant technical hurdles remain before the aircraft can effectively patrol the nation's vast Arctic territories.
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