Bombardier sells six Global 6500 aircraft to Canada

Executive Summary

• The Government of Canada has purchased six Global 6500 aircraft from Bombardier Inc. to support the Royal Canadian Air Force in utility flights, aeromedical evacuations, disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and national security operations.
• The order is valued at approximately $400 million (U.S.) based on the current list price and the cost of military modifications.
• Delivery of the first aircraft is expected by summer 2027, with interior completion work performed in Greater Montreal.

Key Details

• Transaction Value: Approximately $400 million (U.S.), based on the current list price for the Global 6500 aircraft and the cost of military modifications.
• Aircraft Specifications: Six Global 6500 multi-role aircraft.
• Mission Profile: Worldwide utility flights, aeromedical evacuations, disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and national security operations.
• Manufacturing & Supply Chain:
  • Aircraft assembly takes place at Bombardier's Global Aircraft Assembly Centre in the Greater Toronto Area.
  • Interior completion work is performed in Greater Montreal.
  • The aircraft leverages Canada's aerospace supply chain, benefiting from more than 60 Canadian suppliers.
  • Economic footprint in Canada (2022 data): $518.3 million in GDP, 3,747 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs, and $309.1 million in labour income.
• Timeline:
  • Agreement celebrated on the date of the release.
  • First aircraft delivery expected by summer 2027.
• Strategic Context:
  • The purchase underscores Canada's strategic and sovereign capabilities in aerospace and defence.
  • The contract was awarded under the Defence Investment Agency, aiming to streamline processes and accelerate delivery.
  • The Royal Canadian Air Force has operated Bombardier Challenger aircraft since 1983.

Notable Quotes

• Eric Martel, President and CEO, Bombardier: "The Global 6500 aircraft is a world-class, made-in-Canada product with the versatility to perform multiple missions, making it the go-to solution for governments around the world... Today, the more than 12,000 Canadians who work at Bombardier can take great pride in knowing that this aircraft will now serve their country."
• Hon. Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement: "The award of this contract to purchase the Global 6500 under the Defence Investment Agency is a turning point in how Canada equips its military... By streamlining processes and cutting red tape, the Defence Investment Agency is accelerating the delivery of the versatile capabilities the Royal Canadian Air Force needs."