Good afternoon, Mr. Chair. Thank you very much for the opportunity to speak with you this afternoon on air defence.
My name is Major-General Sylvain Ménard. I am the chief of fighter capability, responsible for managing the development of fighter, jet trainer and air demonstration aircraft. In addition to my current role, my experience extends across the defence portfolio, including experience with the North American Aerospace Defense Command, NORAD, as chief of programs and chief of military personnel, where I have participated in managing Canada's air defence team as well as being a leader within Canada's fighter force.
As the chief of fighter capability, I have two main responsibilities.
First, I oversee the continued development of existing aircraft to ensure current missions can continue to safely and effectively carry out their roles. This includes investments in regulatory upgrades for air navigation and communications, enhancements to ensure continued interoperability with allies and introducing limited combat capability upgrades such as improved radar and weapons.
This work includes introducing 18 former Australian CF-18s into Canada's CF-18 fleet. Additionally, the entire CF-18 fleet will receive regulatory and interoperability upgrades, while 36 CF-18s will also receive combat capability upgrades to include new radars and modern weapons. These upgrades, under the current Hornet extension project, will ensure a continued ability to support our commitments to NORAD and NATO while bridging to the future fighter capability.
Secondly, I lead a team that is progressing the introduction of the future aircraft systems and capabilities as outlined in “Strong, Secure, Engaged”. The introduction of the future fighter lead-in trainer and its associated capabilities will allow the RCAF to train future fighter pilots to the level necessary to move on the new advanced fighter aircraft. The new fighter aircraft itself will be a sophisticated platform that will require complex lead-in training to streamline pilot progression and preparation for the new fighter roles.
The RCAF is preparing to bring the new fighter capability to our squadrons and our members. This effort has benefited from many areas of expertise, including successful interdepartmental support, and in advance of a contract award announcement, we are preparing for the transition to a modern jet fighter that will be at the forefront of operations for decades to come.
Finally, I must recognize that, in all the work we do for the air defence of Canada, it is the people who are the strength of the organization, both programmatically and organizationally. The RCAF has focused the priority on our people over recent years, emphasizing comprehensive retention strategies, families and quality of life for our members as we focus on culture and change. The RCAF exists because of its people, and they are our most important asset.
Thank you again, Mr. Chair, for giving me the opportunity to address your committee.
I look forward to addressing any questions you might have.