Future fighter lead-in training

Explore the procurement process for the development of a solution for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) to deliver effective fighter education, skills and experience in the control and operation of military high performance jet aircraft.

In support of Canada’s defence policy, Our North, Strong and Free, the Government of Canada requires an agile and flexible fighter force to enforce Canada’s sovereignty, enable continental security and contribute to international peace and stability.

Canada’s FFLIT capabilities were previously being provided as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Flying Training in Canada Program. This program will come to its end within the next 5 years.

Canada’s decision to acquire the CF-35A fighter aircraft delivers a significant increase in defence capability and requires advanced training to prepare the RCAF pilots of the future. FFLIT is essential preparatory training for this critical Canadian defence capability.

The procurement is being completed through an open, fair and transparent competitive process.

Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), on behalf of National Defence (DND), posted a second request for information on CanadaBuys for the FFLIT to share information and solicit comments and feedback from industry, to ensure a seamless transition with existing pilot training programs.

PSPC, DND and Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) hosted a virtual industry day to introduce the FFLIT project and provide basic project concepts, as well as gain insight into industry interest. Representatives from over 50 businesses joined this session and had the opportunity to ask public officials questions. PSPC, DND and ISED will analyze the feedback to organize potential future industry engagements.

PSPC, on behalf of DND, posted an RFI to engage industry about Canada’s needs and seek information from the marketplace.