Canada is preparing for one of its most significant investments in tactical aviation in decades, earmarking nearly $13 billion CAD ($18.4 billion) for the development of a new rotary-wing capability designed to modernize and expand the Canadian Armed Forces’ helicopter fleet.
RCAF CH-146 Griffon. Image Source: Royal Canadian Air Force
The initiative—called the Next Tactical Aviation Capability Set (nTACS)—is a long-term project expected to bolster the operational effectiveness of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), Canadian Army, and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM).
According to a briefing dated February 25, 2025, and prepared by RCAF Brigadier-General Brendan Cook, Director General of Air and Space Force Development, the nTACS project aims to address long-standing gaps in Canadian rotary-wing capabilities, particularly in firepower, mobility, C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance), and special operations support.
From Griffon to Next-Gen: A Critical Leap Forward
The new fleet is slated to replace the aging CH-146 Griffon helicopters, of which Canada currently operates 82. The Griffon—based on the Bell 412EP—has served since the 1990s, but its limitations in modern battlefield environments have been increasingly apparent.
The nTACS program goes beyond simple replacement. It envisions a return to a balanced fleet concept, offering significantly expanded capabilities and interoperability across Canada’s joint forces. The initial operating capability for the new helicopters is projected for 2033, with industry consultations expected to begin this summer.
Still in Analysis—But Momentum Is Building
The Department of National Defence (DND) confirmed that the project is still in its options analysis phase, with discussions ongoing about platform capabilities and basing options. “This will consider the possible market options for nTACS, their platform capabilities, and this will then inform basing decisions,” said DND spokesperson Kened Sadiku.
No specific breakdown of the $12.9 billion expenditure has been released. However, defense analysts suggest the project could include procurement of airframes, training infrastructure, maintenance systems, and logistics support, ensuring lifecycle sustainability well into the 2040s.
Chinook Mid-Life Upgrade Also on Deck
In parallel with nTACS, the Canadian Armed Forces is also planning a mid-life upgrade for its 14 CH-147F Chinook helicopters—a heavy-lift asset critical to strategic mobility and disaster response operations. The upgrade project is scheduled to achieve initial operational capability by 2032, with full capability anticipated by 2033. Cost details have not yet been disclosed.
Extending the Griffon’s Life to 2031
Meanwhile, modernization efforts are underway to extend the CH-146 Griffon’s service life to at least 2031. In 2022, the federal government awarded a $800 million CAD contract to Bell Textron Canada Limited, based in Mirabel, Quebec, to upgrade avionics, navigation systems, engines, and mission-specific sensors across the Griffon fleet.
The first modernized CH-146 Griffon completed its successful test flight in mid-2024, with the first delivery expected in 2026 pending military certification. Full operational capability for the upgraded Griffon fleet is targeted for 2027.
A New Era in Canadian Tactical Aviation
The nTACS project signals Canada’s intent to restore and elevate its tactical aviation capability to meet the demands of modern conflict environments and joint-force operations. It also represents a strategic investment in the country’s defense industrial base, especially as domestic firms like Bell Textron continue to play a major role in military aerospace.
As industry engagement begins this summer, eyes across the defense community—both in Canada and internationally—will be watching closely.
Canada Defence Journal 