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The first two CT-102B Astra II training aircraft arrived at 15 Wing Moose Jaw yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the Royal Canadian Air Force's transition to the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
Discover Moose Jaw News was given a glimpse of the Astra IIs landing at the base for the first time, but the aircraft still have to undergo months of testing, certification, inspections, and crew training before they begin operations.
Public Affairs Officer Captain Jean Doyon explained that a formal unveiling-and-announcement ceremony would take place sometime in the late fall.
The aircraft, formerly known as the Grob G 120TP, represents the beginning of a comprehensive fleet renewal that will see 15 Wing receive five of the new basic training aircraft by the end of 2025, with the full complement of 23 Astra II aircraft expected over the coming months.
The CT-102B Astra II will serve as the primary basic flight training vehicle for RCAF pilots under the 25-year, $10-billion FAcT program operated by SkyAlyne, a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace.
The Astra II aircraft feature upgraded avionics, higher performance capabilities, and more powerful turboprop engines compared to their predecessors. They represent a significant technological advancement for basic flight training operations, with some making the analogy to learning to drive in a Lamborghini.
In addition to the 23 basic training aircraft, 15 Wing will receive 19 advanced Pilatus PC-21 aircraft, now designated as CT-157 Siskin II trainers, beginning in fall 2026. These advanced fixed-wing training aircraft will handle more sophisticated pilot instruction before students progress to operational aircraft.
The FAcT program consolidates all existing RCAF flying training under a single contract, combining the current NATO Flying Training program operated by CAE in Moose Jaw with KF Aerospace's Contracted Flying Training and Support Services program in Southport, Manitoba.
SkyAlyne is currently in the design phase for new infrastructure at 15 Wing to support the expanded fleet and training operations. Construction activities are expected to begin within the next 12 to 18 months.
The program includes commitments to return $10 billion in economic benefits to Canada over 25 years, with significant portions benefiting Moose Jaw and surrounding communities through construction projects, employment, and local contractor opportunities.
Scott Greenough, the director of NATO Flying Training with CAE,a 25-year RCAF veteran pilot, and former commandant of Moose Jaw’s 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, has described the new aircraft as "state-of-the-art" platforms that will serve the program for many years to come.