The Canadian government said on Tuesday that it would purchase 11 weaponized drones from US company General Atomics for use in disaster assistance and overseas military deployments.
The initial batch of Hellfire missiles, hangars, ground control stations, and training are all included in the Can$2.49 billion (US$1.87 billion) price tag.
Delivery of the MQ-9B drones is anticipated in 2028.
Defense Minister Bill Blair said the purchase will ensure that Canada “has a modern, adaptable military that is prepared to respond to evolving and emerging security challenges.”
According to a statement, the drones will be stationed at Canadian Pacific and Atlantic coast bases, as well as the Arctic.
With a range of 7,200 kilometers and a flight time of nearly 28 hours, these aircraft will be utilized not just for allied missions abroad but also for surveillance over Canada’s extensive landmass and coastline.
According to the military, the drones could also help civilian emergency response teams dealing with floods and forest fires.
The purchase of the drone coincides with the Canadian Air Force’s modernization of its aging aircraft fleet with the addition of F-35 fighter jets, tankers, surveillance planes, and rescue helicopters.
