Project Aurora Plane: A Canadian Success Story Under Threat?

The recent announcement by the Liberal government to purchase Boeing P-8 aircraft to replace the CP-140 Aurora surveillance aircraft has sparked anger and frustration among Canadian firms, particularly Bombardier and General Dynamics Mission Systems, which have developed significant maritime patrol aircraft and multi-mission aircraft capabilities as a result of upgrades undertaken on the current CP-140 fleet.

The modernization program, known as the Aurora Block IV upgrade, includes the installation of advanced air defence systems and sensors, making the Auroras among the most advanced anti-submarine warfare aircraft currently flying. This project has been hailed as a Canadian innovation success story, with companies such as General Dynamics Mission Systems Canada, MDA, Harris, and IMP Aerospace contributing to its development.

However, instead of giving these domestic firms an opportunity to bid on the replacement project, the government appears to be pursuing a sole-source deal with Boeing. This decision has been met with criticism from the premiers of Ontario and Quebec, who are calling on the Liberal government to stand up for Canadian aerospace firms and allow them a chance to compete for the contract.

The CP-140 Aurora is more than just an aircraft - it's a symbol of Canadian innovation and capability in the defence industry. The fact that Canada has developed significant maritime patrol aircraft and multi-mission aircraft capabilities as a result of upgrades undertaken on the current CP-140 fleet is a testament to the country's ability to produce world-class aircraft.

Furthermore, the Aurora Block IV upgrade program has not only modernized the CP-140 fleet but also made it interoperable with other NATO nations. The 14 planes are expected to be delivered by next summer, and the overall project cost is expected to be closer to $9 billion.

Canadian firms are calling on the government to reject the sole-source deal and instead allow a competition for the contract. The potential purchase of the 16 Boeing planes, to be built in Seattle, as well as associated equipment, is worth around $7.8 billion. This is a significant investment that could have far-reaching benefits for the Canadian economy.

In conclusion, the decision to replace the CP-140 Aurora with Boeing P-8 aircraft without giving domestic firms an opportunity to compete is not only a missed opportunity but also a threat to Canada's defence industry. The government must reconsider its decision and allow Canadian aerospace firms to bid on the contract. Only then can we ensure that our country continues to produce world-class aircraft and maintains its position as a leader in the global defence industry.

Project aurora plane