Canada orders six Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft to support multi-role military missions

The order is valued for Bombardier at approximately US$400 million, based on the current list price of the Global 6500 aircraft and the cost of military modifications. The decision underscores Canada’s strategic and sovereign capabilities in aerospace and defence, while drawing on a world-class domestic supply chain.

The Royal Canadian Air Force, which has operated Bombardier Challenger aircraft since 1983, will benefit from the increased range and capability of the Global 6500 aircraft. Delivery of the first aircraft is expected by summer 2027.

“The Global 6500 aircraft is a world-class, made-in-Canada product with the versatility to perform multiple missions, making it the go-to solution for governments around the world,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bombardier. “Today, the more than 12,000 Canadians who work at Bombardier can take great pride in knowing that this aircraft will now serve their country.”

The event was attended by the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement, who highlighted the significance of the contract. “The award of this contract to purchase the Global 6500 under the Defence Investment Agency is a turning point in how Canada equips its military,” Minister Fuhr said.

“By streamlining processes and cutting red tape, the Defence Investment Agency is accelerating the delivery of the versatile capabilities the Royal Canadian Air Force needs,” he added. “Canada has a world-class aerospace industry, and this investment will harness that strength to create good-paying jobs, drive innovation, and bolster our security.”

Bombardier confirmed that the Global 6500 is manufactured at its state-of-the-art Global Aircraft Assembly Centre, inaugurated in 2024 following an investment of more than CAD 670 million and employing over 2,000 highly skilled workers. The company also noted that more than 60 Canadian suppliers contribute to the aircraft, with a PwC report estimating a CAD 518.3 million GDP impact, 3,747 full-time equivalent jobs and CAD 309.1 million in labour income generated in Canada in 2022.