The RCAF’s first CT-153 Juno helicopter has taken to the air for test flights at the Airbus facility in Fort Erie, Ontario wearing its Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program paint scheme!
A 19-aircraft fleet of these advanced training aircraft will eventually replace the current CT-146 and CT-139 training helicopters at 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, Southport, Manitoba as part of FAcT. #H153
🇨🇦🇬🇧Pilots, loadmasters, and maintenance crews were seamlessly integrated during Op BOXTOP 26‑1, working interchangeably on the flight line, in the air, and throughout operations with mixed teams. This unprecedented level of interoperability between the Royal Canadian Air Force and the @royalairforceuk highlights Allied readiness and resilience in the High North.
📸: Corporal Tom Barnard, RAF Visual Communicator & Corporal Luke Barrie, Imagery Technician, 8 Wing Trenton
Congratulations to Colonel Joshua Kutryk on his assignment to NASA’s SpaceX Crew13 mission to the International Space Station. His selection reflects the strength of the RCAF’s training and operational excellence.
Colonel Kutryk’s career embodies the qualities our institution strives to instill disciplined aviators with deep technical expertise, calm under pressure, and committed to service. From demanding fighter operations to test pilot training and leadership roles within the RCAF, he has consistently demonstrated professionalism, curiosity, and quiet determination.
By 2026, two serving members of the @canadianforces will have flown in space this year, a testament to the calibre of RCAF training and the people who push boundaries in service of Canada.
Congratulations, Colonel Kutryk. The RCAF is proud to see you carry our values into orbit.
✈️ A cracking team effort in Canada’s Arctic for Operation BOXTOP 2026 🇨🇦 🇬🇧
The @rcaf_arc and @royalairforceuk are flying side by side in the Arctic. Together, crews are moving fuel across the North, showing how close cooperation keeps Arctic operations running smoothly.
This hands‑on teamwork builds familiarity between Allied air forces and demonstrates a shared commitment to Arctic defence💪
Images by: Corporal Tomas Bernard and Corporal Luke Barrie
When the terrain is too remote for ground access, @canadianforces Search and Rescue takes to the air.
Members of 103 Squadron recently carried out a remote rescue in Newfoundland, executing a demanding 200‑foot hoist to reach two injured snowmobilers and safely airlift them to hospital in St. John’s.
#ThatOthersMayLive
Today at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, RCAF and SkyAlyne leadership welcomed the CT-102B Astra II Basic Flying Training aircraft, where it officially began flying operations.
This sleek new trainer is the first to be delivered under the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program. Before student pilots take the seat, our instructors are hitting the skies to develop the courses that will shape the future of Canada's Air Force.
By the time the fleet is complete, 23 of these aircraft will be based in Moose Jaw! 📍
Historic first landing for the Royal Air Force! Currently deployed with the Royal Canadian Air Force as part of Ex POLAR PUMA, the RAF is contributing to Op BOXTOP to resupply Canadian Forces Station Alert. Both countries’ Globemaster aircraft are delivering bulk fuel for the most northerly permanently inhabited location on Earth, only 817 kilometres (508 miles) from the North Pole. Operating in the Arctic and High North extreme cold and austere conditions, exemplify high-value interoperability, collective preparedness, and a shared commitment to Arctic defence.
📸: Corporal Tom Barnard, RAF Visual Communicator & Corporal Luke Barrie, Imagery Technician, 8 Wing Trenton
Operation BOXTOP is underway! ❄️✈️
@rcaf_arc personnel and NATO Allies are working together to conduct strategic airlift operations to resupply Canadian Forces Station Alert. The Air Task Force will transport bulk fuel deliveries for the most northerly permanently inhabited location on Earth.
Operating in the Arctic and High North, Op BOXTOP sharpens CAF readiness alongside our Allies, building resilience, unity, and strength in one of the world’s most demanding and strategically vital regions.
Photos: Corporal Luke Barrie, Imagery technician, 8 Wing Trenton
Today, we proudly recognize Col Jeremy Hansen as he returns home from Artemis II. As the first Canadian in deep space and also to venture beyond Earth orbit, he has made history and inspired Canadians from coast to coast to coast. From all of us at the RCAF, we are so proud of you and wish you a safe return home!
📸: NASA
#TBT – We’re throwing back to 10 years ago, when Col Jeremy Hansen (LCol at the time) talked about his dream of reaching the stars. Today, that dream has taken him further than any Canadian before. 🚀
He tells us how training to be a fighter pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force helped him develop the skill set needed for space. Today, Col Hansen stands as a symbol of what’s possible through commitment, leadership, and perseverance, representing Canada on the world stage and pushing the boundaries of exploration.
From the Canadian Armed Forces to redefining what’s possible beyond Earth, his journey reminds us that every path begins with a first step. 🇨🇦
Best of luck on your return to planet Earth! 🌎
🚁 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (Tac Hel Sqn) received the Golden Hawks Trophy on March 13, 2026, in recognition of its rapid deployment of a six‑aircraft CH‑146 Griffon detachment during Operation GLOBE 24. Leading the Air Task Force from April to May 2024, 408 Tac Hel Sqn supported Canada’s response to a request from Global Affairs Canada, providing critical aviation support to the Canadian Embassy in Port‑au‑Prince, Haiti. Approximately 300 Canadian Armed Forces members deployed across the region.
📸: Corporal Ashline Jean, 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, Canadian Forces Base Edmonton
