An independent study by economists at Ottawa-based Doyletech Corporation reveals that selecting the Boeing P-8 Poseidon for Canada’s Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) requirement would generate economic benefits, including nearly 3,000 jobs and $358m in economic output annually.
Boeing‘s commitment to Canadian industry and its extensive supply chain demonstrates a partnership that will contribute to the growth of Canada’s aerospace and defence sector.
Short of 80% of all Canadian defence industry suppliers in 2020 alone were either Canada or US-based, and many of the largest US defence firms – including Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Raytheon – all have substantial operations in Canada, according to GlobalData’s report on the “Canada Defence Market 2022-2027“.
Boeing’s current presence in Canada already plays a significant role in the country’s economy. The company’s Canadian footprint and annual investments currently contribute more than CAD $4 billion, supporting over 14,000 jobs nationwide.
Ted Colbert, the President and CEO of Boeing Defense, Space and Security, expressed the company’s dedication to Canada’s pursuit of peace and prosperity. He stated, “We are confident the unmatched P-8 capabilities – and our P-8 offering for Canada – reflect those ideals.”
Boeing has a longstanding history of partnering with Canadian companies, and this tradition continues with the P-8 program. Currently, the company has over 550 Canadian suppliers spread across all provinces, with 81 suppliers specifically involved in the P-8 program.
Team Poseidon, which comprises CAE, GE Aviation Canada, IMP Aerospace & Defence, Honeywell Aerospace Canada, KF Aerospace, Raytheon Canada, and Standard Aerospace, forms the core of this partnership.
The P-8 Poseidon offers advanced capabilities in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and search and rescue operations. It is the only multi-mission aircraft currently in production that fulfils all the requirements outlined in the CMMA.
According to GlobalData’s report on “The Global Military Fixed Wing Aircraft Market 2023-2033“, in recent years, Boeing’s P-8 Poseidon has emerged as a preferred choice for maritime patrolling requirements of several navies worldwide.
Bombardier Defense and General Dynamic have also proposed collaborating to deliver the CMMA, proposing Bombardier’s Global 6500 multi-mission aircraft that combines General Dynamics‘ advanced mission system technology and sensors.
Earlier this year, the Canadian Government submitted a Letter of Request through the US government’s Foreign Military Sales program to acquire up to 16 Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
With Boeing’s commitment to fostering Canadian industry and investments, the P-8 program will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and development of Canada’s aerospace and defence sector.
Late last year, Boeing delivered four P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to New Zealand, replacing the RNZAF’s existing fleet of six P-3K2 Orion aircraft.
