Privatized Search and Rescue A Non-Starter For the Canadian Forces

September 3, 2012. David Pugliese - Defence Watch

Last summer I reported that the Harper government was open to considering the privatization of the military’s search-and-rescue capabilities. That could have involved a variety of proposals, including having a private firm provide aircrew and aircraft on a contract basis.

But that option is now dead and buried, say industry representatives.

The government originally had informed firms last years that alternate service delivery options would be considered for the Fixed Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) project. “The Government of Canada will consider all options to ensure the best possible SAR service to Canadians and best value for taxpayers,” the government added in a statement July 2011. In addition, the Defence Department confirmed at the time that it would consult with industry on the option of alternate service delivery – industry representatives say they looked at that option as meaning that all aspects of search-and-rescue (not just maintenance) could be up for being contracted out.

But industry sources say that the option of allowing firms to provide aircraft and crews on a contract basis to the Canadian Forces never really stood a chance. The RCAF was not keen on the option as they see SAR as a high-profile role they want to continue providing in all aspects.

The Canadian Forces originally announced in 2003 the project to find a replacement for its 45-year-old Buffalo search-and-rescue planes. The Conservatives re-announced that project as part of their Canada First Defence Strategy.

Defence Minister Peter MacKay has repeatedly stated over the last several years that the purchase was moving ahead but it has been a long slog, say industry officials.

The new aircraft would replace the air force’s fleet of Buffalos, first purchased in 1967. The planes are used in search-and-rescue on the West Coast and in parts of the Rockies. The Buffalos have faced mechanical and technical problems and, several years ago, the air force ran out of spare propellers for the planes.