As part of the novelties of the modernization and life extension program of the CH-146C MK II Griffon helicopters of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Bell Textron confirmed that the first updated copy will be delivered next year 2026. The news is framed by the notification of the start of the flight test campaign of the first aircraft to be subjected to this work; being reported on June 20.
At the beginning of the year we announced the Canadian government’s decision to keep the CH-146C MK II Griffon helicopters, a variant of the Bell 412EP, in service until the 2040s. With an allocation of 2.8 billion Canadian dollars, the plans They include ensuring the necessary line of supplies and maintenance services by Bell Textron, as well as the extension and useful life of the aircraft.
Bell Textron confirmed on June 20 that the first aircraft to receive these works has begun its flight testing campaign, setting the year 2026 as the date on which it will be delivered to the Royal Canadian Air Force, waiting to count the military certification necessary.
Based on what was reported by the company, the modernization of the Canadian CH-146, framed within the Griffon Limited Life Extension (GLLE) Project, includes “…modifications to a number of the fleet’s aeronautical components, including its avionics systems, cockpit displays, engines and sensor systems”; aiming, together with the provision of additional services and spare parts, to guarantee the operation of the helicopters until the year 2039.
Currently, a fleet of 82 CH-146 Griffon helicopters is in active service in Canada, operating from 11 locations across the country. The use of aircraft in the North American country usually focuses on tactical transportation, emergency response and search and rescue; The extension of its operational functions will allow it to be used both in national and international missions.
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