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Commander says RCAF is on a ‘path of growth’ in 2026
The Royal Canadian Air Force is addressing personnel shortages with a 20-year fleet modernization including new aircraft and a 20% pay increase for entry-level pilots.
- The Royal Canadian Air Force will begin F-35 training at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona in 2026 as part of a 20-year modernization plan, the force announced.
- Replaced ageing aircraft prompted the RCAF commander to plan moving from F-18 fighter jets to F-35s, with Canada reviewing a plan for 88 F-35s and Ottawa committing to 16.
- Adapting to new tech, the Royal Canadian Air Force is pairing MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones with crewed aircraft while increasing intake, speeding training, and improving retention of recruits and experienced members.
- Facing shortages, the RCAF must address personnel gaps as Speiser-Blanchet plans organizational structure and deployments shifts within a year, keeping 'priority one' on people.
- The Liberal government's review centres on acquiring a full fleet of 88 F-35s while Ottawa has committed to 16, as leaders see near-term gains with allies and Canadian industry.
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31 Articles
31 Articles
Winnipeg Free Press+25 Reposted by 25 other sources
Commander says RCAF is on a 'path of growth' in 2026
Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada
·Winnipeg, Canada
Read Full ArticleCoverage Details
Total News Sources31
Leaning Left18Leaning Right0Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution78% Left
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources lean Left
78% Left
L 78%
C 22%
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