Paige LeClairMembers of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) begin participation in CRUZEX FLIGHT 18 today, a key South American multinational exercise hosted by the Brazilian Air Force.
Brazil is one of the Government of Canada’s priorities for engagement in the Western Hemisphere, and the RCAF has had a bilateral relationship with the Brazilian Air Force since 2009.
More than 35 members of the RCAF from 8 Wing Trenton, 1 Canadian Air Division and RCAF headquarters will partake in the exercise, as well as, members of the Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Centre and two CC-130J Hercules aircraft.
“We look forward to our participation in CRUZEX FLIGHT 18. In addition to flying tactical missions, the Air Task Force members will also engage in academic discussions regarding Peace Support Operations, thereby building relationships with our partner nations and contributing to capacity building in the region,” says Lieutenant-Colonel Andy Bowser, CRUZEX FLIGHT 18 Air Task Force Commander.
The exercise is in operation from November 18 to November 30, 2018.
The RCAF will join its allies and partners from Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, France, the United States, and Uruguay exercising tactical transport missions in conflict and humanitarian relief scenarios in a combined environment, while exchanging information on doctrine,
Exercising in unfamiliar environments contributes to the operational readiness of Air Mobility aircrew and technicians as the personnel may be called upon to fly anywhere in the world to support Canadian (CAF) Armed Forces operations, including humanitarian relief missions.
Canada remains committed to working with its allies and partners in the Americas to increase capabilities, foster military professionalization, and encourage interoperability. Enhancing defence diplomacy in the Americas serves to strengthen international and regional security, while also continental, NATO and UN led-missions.
