Bell Textron has completed the first flight of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s modified CH-146 Griffon multirole utility helicopter as part of a 2022 modernization contract.
The Griffon Limited Life Extension (GLLE) project is a continuing effort to deliver upgrades for the aircraft, which has been in service since the early 1990s.
This effort includes revamps of avionics, sensors, engines, and cockpit displays, enabling the vehicles’ operability through the 2030s.
Based on the GLLE award notice, the initiative costs 800 million Canadian dollars ($586.9 million) and covers all of the air force’s 85 Griffons.
Canada’s first upgraded CH-146 Griffon is scheduled to arrive in 2026.
“As Canada’s only helicopter manufacturer in-country, Bell is a proud partner of the Canadian Armed Forces,” Bell Textron Canada General Manager Michael Nault stated.
“Our facility’s local presence provides us with the ability to work closely with the Canadian government, as well as other local customers to address their aircraft needs.”
“The GLLE program will help ensure that the Royal Canadian Air Force is equipped with cutting-edge defense technologies for years to come.”
The milestone follows a billion-dollar contract signed by Bell Textron in January to provide in-service sustainment for the Canadian Griffons.
‘Venerable’ Asset
The CH-146 Griffon is the tactical variant of the Bell 412 introduced in the 1980s.
It has an overall length of 17.1 meters (56.1 feet), a rotor span of 14 meters (45.9 feet), and a maximum weight of 5,400 kilograms (5.9 tons).
The aircraft is powered by a 1,250 horsepower Pratt & Whitney PT6T turboshaft engine for a maximum speed of 260 kilometers (160 miles) per hour and a range of 656 kilometers (407 miles).
It can carry up to 10 personnel and is equipped with mounted guns, rotary miniguns, and machine guns.
Under the Royal Canadian Air Force, the platform is used for troop and equipment transport, search and rescue, surveillance and reconnaissance, anti-drug enforcement, and military training.
“The Bell 412 remains a venerable aircraft of choice for militaries across the world, with the Royal Canadian Air Force operating the largest and best equipped militarized fleet of 412s,” Bell Chief Commercial Officer Danny Maldonado remarked during the modified CH-146’s maiden flight.
“Bell is honored to continue our relationship with the Royal Canadian Air Force as they expand their mission capabilities with next generation technologies.”