Safety and efficiency are at the heart of a major avionics upgrade to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s fleet. Dr Joetey Attariwala takes a closer look
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is undergoing a massive effort to modernise and upgrade the avionics of its fleet of aircraft. Avionics – the electronic systems used on aircraft – are critical as they provide navigation, communication and surveillance capabilities and are essential to maintaining the safe and efficient operation of aircraft. Most of the upgrade efforts are to keep aircraft current with global air traffic control requirements, while others seek to enhance the capabilities of a particular fleet.
The RCAF provides the responsive and effective airpower needed to defend and protect Canadian and North American airspace, while also contributing to international peace and security. As flight path restrictions and safety mandates are routinely updated by both civil and military aviation regulatory authorities, aircraft avionics require regular upgrades to ensure they continue meeting the latest regulations.
