Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

CAF to replace two Challenger 601 aircraft

8th June 2020 - 12:30 GMT | by Shephard News Team

RSS

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have replaced two Challenger 601 utility aircraft with two newer 650 models (pictured). Delivery of the two new aircraft is part of a C$105 million ($78.35 million) contract that also includes initial training and spare parts.

The 601s entered into service in the 1980s and now fall short of meeting operational requirements. New aviation regulations in both the US and Europe mean that the Canadian military would be severely restricted in its ability to operate the aging platforms in international airspace beyond 2020.

Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, said: ‘This purchase is another example of our government’s commitment to provide the CAF with the modern equipment they need to carry out the critical work we ask of them.’

The Challenger fleet is operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force from Ottawa International Airport and is maintained by Transport Canada technicians.

As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones

Author

Shephard News Team

As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to Premium News and Defence Insight …

Read full bio

More from Air Warfare

AUSA 2025: US Army and Bell squeeze MV-75 programme

The MV-75, previously V-280, was originally designed as an assault aircraft which would replace some of the Black Hawk helicopters and add speed as a tilt-rotor platform. It is now envisioned to add a greater multirole capability reminiscent of the Black Hawk fleet.
India elevates defence systems to boost mountain surveillance

India has strengthened its focus on terrain-adaptive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance following recent incursions and drone activity along the country’s northern borders.
Germany signs contract for 20 Tranche 5 Eurofighters

The aircraft will be delivered between 2031 and 2034 and will be upgraded with the latest electronic warfare capabilities to the EK configuration.
Saab receives order to continue future fighter concept studies out to 2027

The order from the FMV is an extension of the original contract signed in March 2024 and covers exploration of both crewed and uncrewed platforms.
AUSA 2025: GA-ASI and Hanwha to produce Gray Eagle STOL in South Korea

The Gray Eagle STOL will be made available to several international militaries, with initial customer delivery planned for 2028.
AUSA 2025: AeroVironment showcases new variant of Switchblade loitering munition family

The new Switchblade 400 was on display alongside new variants of existing drones: the Switchblade 600 Block 2 and Switchblade 300 Block 20.