Maritime helicopter project

The Maritime Helicopter Project (MHP) is the procurement of a new maritime helicopter capability to replace the Sea Kings.

In addition to the procurement of 28 new CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopters, the MHP also includes procuring associated logistical and in-service support. Modifications have been made to the Halifax-class ships and a new training centre was constructed with a full training suite of flight, mission and maintenance simulators. In its final configuration, the Cyclone will be capable of a full range of anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and utility missions in various environments, making it one of the most capable maritime helicopters in the world.

• In June 2018, Canada began taking possession of the advanced capability Cyclone maritime helicopters in the Block 2 configuration
• Canada currently owns 19 Cyclones, with 13 in the Block 2 configuration

• Canada accepted delivery of the Maritime Helicopter Training Centre in Shearwater, Nova Scotia
• Canada began taking delivery of advanced capability helicopters (Block 2 configuration) as set out in the contract

In June, Canada took delivery of its first 6 helicopters with the initial capabilities (Block 1 configuration) as set out in the contract, and the in-service support contract commenced.

Following extensive negotiations, the acquisition and in-service support contracts were amended to implement the third-party recommendations. The in-service support contract was also extended by 10 years to 2038.

• Project delays caused the delivery schedule to be revised and after delays continued into 2013, Canada explored various options to address the issues, including seeking third-party advice
• The third party confirmed the viability of the procurement and recommended changes to the governance structure and a blocking strategy for the delivery of the helicopter’s capabilities

• 2 contracts were awarded to the Sikorsky Corporation for the:
  • acquisition of 28 maritime helicopters, including maintenance and service set-up, as well as infrastructure work including the construction of a new training facility in Shearwater, Nova Scotia
  • in-service support for an initial period of 10 years, to 2028
• An interim version of the new maritime helicopter was expected to be delivered to Canada in 2008, with fully operational aircraft deliveries beginning in 2010