In a major boost for Canada’s aerospace sector, National Defence Minister Bill Blair applauded Boeing’s $61 million investment in British Columbia’s aerospace industry.
This investment is part of the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITBs) linked to Canada’s acquisition of up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft through the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) project.
The P-8A procurement, announced by Minister Blair in November 2023, will create over 3,000 jobs. It is expected to inject about $358 million annually into Canada’s economy for the next decade. As the P-8A fleet supplier, Boeing has committed to significant investments in Canada.
Breakdown of Boeing $61 Million Investment
Vancouver R&D
$48 million will go towards enhancing Boeing’s Vancouver facility’s research and development capabilities. This investment aims to keep Canada’s aerospace industry at the cutting edge of technology.
The focus will be on data analytics to improve program management, aircraft sustainability, and performance. Boeing Vancouver will use advanced modeling and machine learning to develop tools for better aircraft fleet management.
COTA Aviation
$13 million will support COTA Aviation, an Indigenous-owned company in Parksville, B.C. This funding will establish a hands-on aerospace manufacturing training facility to increase Indigenous participation in the aerospace and defence sectors.
The program will train 10 workers annually, equipping them with skills to operate modern manufacturing equipment, including robotic automation. COTA will also help Indigenous learners find work placements after completing the program.
Minister Blair emphasized that these investments show how supporting the Canadian Armed Forces boosts economic growth and skill development in Canada’s defence and aerospace sectors.
The CMMA project will provide Canada with a new fleet of aircraft ready to meet the country’s security needs and work seamlessly with allies.
The P-8A will replace the aging CP-140 Aurora, which has served for over 40 years. This new multi-mission platform will conduct maritime and overland surveillance, defending Canada and supporting its allies.
The P-8A Poseidon Program
The P-8A will replace Canada’s current maritime patrol aircraft, the CP-140 Aurora. The Royal Canadian Air Force acquired the CP-140 Aurora fleet in 1980 and plans to retire it from service in 2030.
At that point, it will have been in service for almost 50 years and is already facing significant obsolescence challenges.
The Government of Canada is confident that the P-8A delivers the best anti-submarine and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This platform is a proven capability that is operated by all Five Eyes allies. This involves the partner nations, United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as other defence partners.
“Our new P-8A Poseidon fleet will equip our aviators to protect our sovereignty while creating economic growth and jobs for Canadians,” Blair stated.
He welcomed Boeing’s major investments in British Columbia’s aerospace sector. Blair highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring defence investments benefit both the Canadian Armed Forces and the economy.
Conclusion
Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, emphasized the aerospace sector’s importance to Canada’s economy. He explained that defence projects support the Canadian supply chain. François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, praised Boeing’s investments for advancing Canadian innovation and creating high-value career opportunities.
Parm Bains, MP for Steveston-Richmond East, noted Boeing Vancouver’s contributions to the local economy and expressed enthusiasm for the company’s ongoing commitment to technological advancements in the region.
Al Meinzinger, President of Boeing Canada, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to Canada’s aviation industry. He highlighted their century-long history of innovation in the country and their enduring commitment to shaping Canada’s aerospace future.
The first P-8A is expected to be delivered in 2026, and with an average of two aircraft delivered every three months, all of the aircraft could be delivered as early as fall 2028.
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