The United States State Department has given its approval for a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Canada of up to 16 Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
In a notice published on June 27, 2023, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) estimated the value of the aircraft and associated equipment and services to be around $5.9 billion. The Canadian government had expected the Multi-Mission Aircraft program to cost over $3,77 billion.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the military capability of Canada, a NATO ally that is an important force for ensuring political stability and economic progress, and a contributor to military, peacekeeping, and humanitarian operations around the world,” the DSCA said.
The Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) program aims to replace the Royal Canadian Air Force fleet of 14 CP-140 Aurora aircraft and to enhance its anti-submarine warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
In May 2022, Bombardier offered its own candidate for the CMMA program. Associated with General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada, the Canadian manufacturer proposed to adapt its Global 6500 business aircraft to Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). Bombardier described its offer as “the right-sized jet for the CMMA with next-generation engines, long range, high endurance, and coupled with proven reliability and better fuel efficiency.”
