As part of the FWSAR programme, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) will purchase 16 C295Ws modified for search and rescue (SAR). The contract will also include in service support, provided through a joint venture between Airbus Defence and Space and PAL Aerospace.

Simon Jacques, Head of Airbus Defence and Space in Canada, said: “We are acutely conscious of the importance of search and rescue in Canada’s vast and challenging territory and we are honoured to have been selected to provide the aircraft and service to ensure that the role is carried out effectively.”

The C295W features substantial Canadian content. Every C295 is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada engines, pilots will be trained at a new facility developed by CAE, and the electro-optical systems for FWSAR will be provided by L3 Wescam. In-service support for the life of the programme will be provided by AirPro, a joint venture between Airbus Defence and Space and PAL Aerospace. In-service support will be conducted by Canadians in Canada.

Airbus Defence and Space Head of Military Aircraft, Fernando Alonso, said: “It is extremely satisfying to receive this massive vote in confidence for the C295 from a highly demanding customer.

“Coming at a time when the medium turboprop sector is in something of a down-cycle, it is a clear sign that the C295’s robustness, reliability and cost-effectiveness will ensure that it remains the market leader.” When the contract is finalised, 185 C295Ns will have been ordered by 25 countries.