Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilots have begun intensive training with the Royal Air Force (RAF) on the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. This collaboration marks a crucial phase in the RCAF’s transition to the advanced platform, replacing the aging CP-140 Aurora fleet. The training is taking place at RAF Lossiemouth, a key hub for Britain’s Poseidon operations.
Photo: RAF
The decision to acquire the P-8A Poseidon came in November 2023 when the Canadian government finalized a deal with the United States for up to 16 of the multi-mission aircraft. This procurement addresses the growing challenges of supporting the 40-year-old CP-140 Aurora fleet which is becoming increasingly expensive to maintain and less relevant against modern threats. The Canadian government, after thorough analysis, deemed the P-8A as the only currently available aircraft capable of meeting all operational requirements for the Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) project. The new platform will provide enhanced anti-submarine, anti-surface warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The P-8A will allow Canada to better defend its maritime approaches, Arctic regions, and meet its obligations to NATO and NORAD. The project is estimated to cost $10.4 billion CAD, with $5.9 billion USD earmarked for the P-8A, associated equipment, training, and initial sustainment. The first delivery is expected in 2026, and full operational capability is projected for 2033. The CP-140 Aurora is scheduled to retire in 2030 after nearly 50 years of service. Although the CP-140 has been crucial in protecting Canada’s coastlines from security threats, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and pollution, and has supported international missions, its effectiveness is diminishing against increasingly advanced adversaries. Canada determined it needs a minimum of 14 P-8A aircraft to meet its domestic and international obligations. These will operate out of 14 Wing Greenwood, N.S., and 19 Wing Comox, B.C.
RAF Lossiemouth’s 42 (Torpedo Bomber) Squadron is at the forefront of this collaborative effort, providing essential training to RCAF crews. For several months, Canadian aircrew have been working with RAF personnel to gain experience and skills on the Poseidon. Four Canadian personnel completed their initial training flights on the P-8A in December 2024, marking a key milestone in the RCAF’s integration with the UK Poseidon force. These training flights are designed to provide a thorough understanding of maritime protection and the technical aspects of the P-8A. This partnership with the RAF is vital for the rapid and safe transition from the CP-140M Aurora to the P-8A Poseidon. The training and operational exposure gained will allow the RCAF to incorporate best practices and lessons learned. Upon successful completion of the course, Canadian personnel will join the RAF Poseidon frontline squadrons to gain further operational experience. RAF Lossiemouth currently hosts three Poseidon squadrons. The station has also been involved in other collaborations with overseas personnel, including training Norwegian Poseidon crews and hosting German Poseidons to enhance Europe’s maritime security.
“It was great to experience the first flight after months of training,” said Captain Darren Kirk of the Royal Canadian Air Force. “The instruction received at 42 Torpedo Bomber Squadron has been excellent. The instructors are invested in the students and enable us to achieve our highest potential,” he added.
For more information, hit the Source below