RCAF selects Smith Myers’ ARTEMIS for Cormorant mid-life upgrade

Smith Myers has been chosen by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) for the Cormorant Search and Rescue Helicopter Mid-Life Upgrade (CMLU) project. Smith Myers’ ARTEMIS mobile phone detection location system will be a key component of the upgrade.

The Canadian Department of National Defence awarded the CA$1 billion contract to Leonardo for the CMLU project. The project aims to transition Canada’s AW101/CH-149 Cormorant SAR helicopter fleet to the latest standard, ensuring compliance with emerging airspace requirements.

Andrew Munro, Managing Director of Smith Myers, commented: “We are excited to be part of this transformative project and to contribute to the advancement of SAR capabilities for the RCAF. ARTEMIS stands as a testament to Smith Myers’ commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that make a positive impact in critical operations.”

Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, added: “The AW101/CH-149 Cormorant SAR helicopter fleet will provide the RCAF with the sustainment of a robust, high-tech, all-weather SAR capability across Canada. The CMLU program through Team Cormorant will reduce the cost of fleet ownership, while further increasing reliability, capability, and safety for Canadian people.”

The collaboration under Team Cormorant includes Leonardo, IMP Aerospace & Defence, GE Canada, and Collins Aerospace Canada.