Bell Textron Canada targets a 2026 delivery for the first modernized CH-146 Griffon of the Royal Canadian Air Force, pending military certification.
The company is upgrading RCAF’s fleet of Bell 412EP variant helicopters under a $2.28 billion in-service support contract awarded in January to support the Griffon Limited Life Extension project through 2039.
The first modified aircraft, which recently performed its maiden flight, features updates to its avionics systems, cockpit displays, engines, sensor systems and other aeronautical components.
Canada uses the aircraft for various missions, including the United Nations’ humanitarian relief operations, NATO reassurance measures, emergency response, and search and rescue missions.
According to Michael Nault, vice president and general manager of Bell Textron Canada, the ongoing work on the GLLE project will ensure that RCAF is equipped with cutting-edge defense technologies in the coming years.
Bill Blair, Canadian minister of national defense, previously said the support contract will keep the CH-146 Griffon fleet operating for the next 15 years.
Ottawa has the largest Bell 412 fleet worldwide, with 82 helicopters operating from 11 squadrons, Vertical Magazine reported.