5 Canadian Air Force Jets You Need To Know

The Canadian Air Force, also known as the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), is a proud and storied institution with a rich history of defending Canada's sovereignty and contributing to international peace and security. As a key component of the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCAF operates a diverse fleet of aircraft, each with its own unique capabilities and roles. In this article, we'll take a closer look at five Canadian Air Force jets that you need to know.

1. CF-18 Hornet

The CF-18 Hornet is a multi-role fighter jet that has been the backbone of the RCAF's combat air fleet for decades. With its impressive speed, agility, and payload capacity, the CF-18 is capable of performing a wide range of missions, from air-to-air combat to ground attack and reconnaissance. The CF-18 has seen extensive service in various international conflicts, including the Gulf War and the Libyan Civil War.

CF-18 Hornet Specifications:

Length: 56 feet (17 meters)
Wingspan: 40 feet (12 meters)
Maximum speed: Mach 1.8 (1,190 mph or 1,915 km/h)
Range: 2,000 miles (3,219 kilometers)
Armament: 1x 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon, AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles

2. CF-188B ISTAR

The CF-188B ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) is a modified version of the CF-18 Hornet, designed to perform reconnaissance and surveillance missions. Equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, the CF-188B ISTAR can gather vital intelligence and transmit it in real-time to command centers. This aircraft has played a critical role in various international operations, including the war in Afghanistan.

CF-188B ISTAR Specifications:

Length: 56 feet (17 meters)
Wingspan: 40 feet (12 meters)
Maximum speed: Mach 1.8 (1,190 mph or 1,915 km/h)
Range: 2,000 miles (3,219 kilometers)
Armament: None (dedicated reconnaissance platform)

3. CC-150 Polaris

The CC-150 Polaris is a modified Airbus A310-300 commercial airliner, converted for military use as a strategic transport and tanker aircraft. With its impressive range and payload capacity, the CC-150 Polaris can transport personnel, equipment, and fuel over long distances, making it an essential asset for the RCAF's global operations.

CC-150 Polaris Specifications:

Length: 158 feet (48 meters)
Wingspan: 145 feet (44 meters)
Maximum speed: Mach 0.80 (530 mph or 853 km/h)
Range: 6,000 miles (9,656 kilometers)
Payload capacity: 120,000 pounds (54,431 kilograms)

4. CT-155 Hawk

The CT-155 Hawk is a British-made advanced jet trainer, used by the RCAF to train its pilots in the skills necessary for combat flying. With its high performance and maneuverability, the CT-155 Hawk provides an ideal platform for pilots to hone their skills in a safe and controlled environment.

CT-155 Hawk Specifications:

Length: 39 feet (12 meters)
Wingspan: 27 feet (8 meters)
Maximum speed: Mach 0.85 (630 mph or 1,015 km/h)
Range: 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers)
Armament: 1x 30mm ADEN cannon, practice bombs and rockets

5. CF-35A Lightning II

The CF-35A Lightning II is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet, designed to replace the CF-18 Hornet as the RCAF's primary combat aircraft. With its advanced stealth capabilities, sensor systems, and networking capabilities, the CF-35A is poised to play a major role in the RCAF's future operations.

CF-35A Lightning II Specifications:

Length: 50 feet (15 meters)
Wingspan: 35 feet (11 meters)
Maximum speed: Mach 1.6 (1,200 mph or 1,931 km/h)
Range: 1,200 miles (1,931 kilometers)
Armament: 1x 25mm GAU-22/A cannon, AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles

Canadian Air Force Jets Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Canadian Air Force's impressive fleet of jets. From the stalwart CF-18 Hornet to the cutting-edge CF-35A Lightning II, each of these aircraft plays a vital role in defending Canada's interests and contributing to international peace and security. We encourage you to share your thoughts and questions about these incredible machines in the comments below!