CAE announced that its SkyAlyne joint venture has been awarded a C$11.2 billion, 25-year contract for Canada’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program. SkyAlyne, a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace of Kelowna, BC, was selected as the preferred bidder for the FAcT Program in July 2023 after a rigorous process.
Marc Parent, CAE’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “CAE has proudly worked alongside the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) for more than 75 years to design and deliver training, services, and technologies that support the mission readiness of Canada’s aviators. Today’s announcement regarding the Future Aircrew Training Program is a significant achievement in the ongoing modernization efforts of Canada’s defence forces.”
The FAcT Program is a transformative initiative that reimagines training for the RCAF, consolidating three aircrew training operations under SkyAlyne and Canada’s joint management. The program aims to prepare Canadian military Pilots, Air Combat Systems Officers, and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators for future challenges.
Under the FAcT Program, SkyAlyne will collaborate with the RCAF to design, develop, and deliver a comprehensive training and support system, including live flying, simulation, ground school training, and a suite of in-service support functions. The program will be centrally managed from Ottawa, with operations set to continue at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Southport (Portage la Prairie), and 17 Wing Winnipeg.
The FAcT Program will revamp and expand upon current training services provided by CAE and KF Aerospace, establishing a complete training enterprise at all three operating locations to ensure the RCAF maintains the highest standards of excellence and innovation.
Parent emphasized the significance of this win for SkyAlyne and CAE, stating, “FAcT is a transformational win for SkyAlyne and CAE, laying the groundwork for training technologies and processes enabling mission readiness. As an industry leader in civil and defence simulation training and critical operations, CAE is proud to be part of the future of aircrew training to Canada.”
The contract award marks a significant milestone in the modernization of Canada’s defence forces and highlights CAE’s ongoing commitment to supporting the mission readiness of Canada’s aviators through innovative training solutions and technologies.
