Canadian Department of National Defence,
As part of Air Force transformation, the Air Force has received its first Phase II modernized CF-18 fighter jet. The industry partners involved in both phases of the CF-18 modernization, The Boeing Company and L-3 Communications MAS Inc., delivered the aircraft on August 20 at a ceremony in Montreal.
Phase II of the CF-18 modernization program adds a data link system, a helmet-mounted sight system, new color cockpit displays and a new chaff and flare dispensing electronic warfare system to 79 CF-18 Hornets.
The entire $2.1 billion CF-18 modernization project, based on the U.S. Navy's F-18 Hornet upgrade, was found to be the most cost-effective and lowest risk solution for modernizing Canada's CF-18s.
The program is expected to be completed by March 2010. Phase I, completed in August 2006, upgraded the fleet's avionics, radio and weapons capabilities.
Phase II of the CF-18 modernization project involves outfitting the jets with even more technologically advanced equipment:
The jets will be equipped with a secure data and communications link that will allow CF-18 crews to stay in constant contact with other jets, ground stations and airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) aircraft to maintain their situational awareness in a constantly evolving environment.
New state-of-the-art colour display panels will provide pilots with improved access to flight data and communications. The colour displays will significantly improve the pilots' ability to process and refine the reams of data they receive.
Pilots' helmets will also be outfitted with new visors that display readings from the instrument panel, so that they can maintain visual contact with a target without having to look down into the cockpit to monitor flight instruments.
A new ejection seat, in support of this new helmet display system, will also be procured under Phase II.
The aircraft will also be outfitted with a new chaff/flare dispenser as part of its missile countermeasures.
