This week, the first of three CH-146 helicopters was delivered to Mirabel (Quebec, Canada) to help test avionics systems and engine upgrades. This milestone marks an important step in the GLLE project’s plan to extend the helicopter fleet to mid-2030.

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Soldiers from 2 Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment (2 RCR) prepare to rappel from a Griffon helicopter during a training exercise at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base (5 CDSB) Gagetown, in Oromocto New Brunswick on June 1, 2018 (Picture source: RCAF)

The Griffon Limited Life Extension (GLLE) project will extend the life of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s fleet of 85 CH-146 Griffon helicopters to at least 2031. To do so, they will:

- replace a number of the aircraft’s avionics systems, including communications radios and cryptographic equipment, cockpit voice and flight recorders, navigation systems, automatic flight control systems, and control display units;
- upgrade the cockpit displays;
- upgrade engines;
- integrate sensor systems.

The project will also upgrade flight simulation and training devices to ensure alignment with the fleet modifications, and the provision of equipment and spare parts.

The Griffon, Canada’s multi-purpose utility helicopter, is essential to CAF operations both at home and abroad. The helicopter fills a number of functions, including tactical troop transport, reconnaissance, escort and surveillance, casualty evacuation, disaster relief, special operations aviation support, and search and rescue.

Upgrading the CH-146 will ensure that it continues to make important contributions to the success of the full range of the CAF’s missions and operations.