Canada has selected CAE to develop the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Fighter Lead-in Training (FFLIT) program.
FFLIT is Ottawa’s initiative to prepare pilots to operate the service’s future combat aircraft fleet, specifically the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jets.
As a strategic partner, the Quebec-based company will assist in the design, refinement, and launch of the initiative, with all processes ensuring that the dedicated personnel will be equipped with critical skills to fly the “complex and significantly capable” planes across evolving domains.
Before this initiative, CAE worked on aerial military training for Canada in the past, including local NATO Flying Training, the Operational Training System Provider, and the previous FFLIT program for the Canadian military and its allies.
“We are honoured to be entrusted by the Government of Canada to play a critical role in strengthening the 5th Generation fighter capabilities of the Royal Canadian Air Force,” CAE President and CEO Marc Parent stated.
“This decision underscores CAE’s position as a global leader in training and innovation, and our steadfast commitment to those who protect our country and its allies.”
Investment for National Security, Economic Growth
The FFLIT will support approximately 1,100 local opportunities, primarily across Quebec, Alberta, and Ontario.
Moreover, the program is expected to contribute about 145 million Canadian dollars ($102.3 million) to the nation’s gross domestic product over the next 37 years.
“Today’s announcement highlights Canada’s commitment to building long-term capacity for our air force members, ensuring they receive the training they need to keep Canadians safe, while creating good jobs across the country,” Canadian Public Services and Procurement Minister Jean-Yves Duclos commented on the latest teaming with CAE.
“This investment also showcases how modern procurement strategies can support economic growth and national security, while ensuring our military is ready for the challenges it faces in an ever-changing environment.”
CAE in Future Aircrew Training Program
CAE’s FFLIT work will be facilitated in parallel with the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program which will train air and ground crews as well as maintenance teams for current and future threats.
For this 25-year effort, CAE and KF Aerospace’s joint venture SkyAlyne will oversee lessons and simulations for warfighters starting in 2028.
Last January, SkyAlyne completed the acquisition of aircraft fleets needed to practice in different mission sets under the program.
