Leonardo announced on May 29, 2018, that in partnership with Team Cormorant, it will deliver a comprehensive upgrade to Canada’s CH-149 SAR fleet. In addition, the current fleet of 14 helicopters will be increased to 21. The Cormorant Mid-Life Upgrade programme will extend the helicopter’s life of type to at least 2040. Team Cormorant is made up of Leonardo, CAE, GE Canada and Rockwell Collins Canada.
A Leonard spokesperson said: “Based on the AW101-612 standard, Leonardo and Team Cormorant will provide a very low-risk solution to upgrade, enhance and address obsolescence, as well as augment the fleet to return the Cormorant to all four [Canadian] main operating bases.” Nigel Pittaway
