Canada takes next step toward acquisition of 18 F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fighter jets.

Canada has confirmed to the U.S. government its commitment to applying its Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy on this potential acquisition, which requires suppliers to make investments in Canada equal to 100% of their contract value. This policy will provide Canadian companies with opportunities to directly participate in this procurement, develop Canadian-based suppliers, support innovation through research and development, grow export opportunities for Canadian firms, and create jobs for middle-class Canadians.

Following receipt of this letter, the U.S. Department of Defense will engage Boeing and other suppliers to develop an official proposal. This process includes the U.S. government’s notification to its Congress about the potential sale of Super Hornets to Canada.

As early as fall 2017, Canada expects to receive a response from the U.S. government. The proposal will be reviewed to determine if the U.S. government can provide the interim solution at a cost, schedule, level of capability and economic value acceptable to Canada. If this process is successful, Canada could enter into a formal agreement with the U.S. government for the interim aircraft and associated elements of in-service support as early as the end of 2017 or the beginning of 2018.

“Today’s announcement shows important progress toward getting the brave women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces the equipment they need to protect Canadians and Canadian values around the world. We will assess whether an interim Super Hornet fleet purchase will help ensure Canada remains a credible and dependable ally for many years to come,” said The Hon. Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence.

In parallel, Canada will also undertake formal discussions with potential suppliers regarding economic benefits for Canadian industry to meet the requirements of the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy. This will ensure that the potential procurement of interim aircraft will help grow Canada’s aerospace and defence sector, create high-value jobs and support Canadian innovation.

The Government of Canada will continue to provide updates and keep Canadians informed of its progress as it moves forward on replacing and supplementing Canada’s fighter aircraft.

“The Letter of Request to the U.S. government is an important step that outlines our requirements on capabilities, schedule and economic benefits for 18 Super Hornets. This should address the interim needs of the Canadian Armed Forces until the permanent replacement fleet is in place and operational. Our government is committed to leveraging the procurement to ensure our women and men in uniform get the equipment they need, while maximizing economic benefits for Canadians,” said The Hon. Judy M. Foote, Minister of Public Services and Procurement.

“The application of the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy will ensure that the potential acquisition of 18 new Super Hornet aircraft will result in economic benefits for Canadians. The policy requires potential suppliers to make investments in Canada equal to the value of their contract. These investments will grow Canada’s aerospace and defence sectors, support Canadian innovation through research and development, increase export opportunities for Canadian firms and ultimately create high-value jobs for middle-class Canadians,” said The Hon Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.