Canada eyes $5B ‘Flying Radar’ fleet to counter emerging missile threats

Canada is moving to strengthen its national defence capabilities amid growing concerns over advanced missile threats from global adversaries.

The Canadian Armed Forces say the country’s primary military risk stems from hypersonic and cruise missiles that could approach from multiple directions — including the Arctic, maritime regions, and even space — with nations such as Russia and China identified as key sources of concern.

In response, the federal government is planning to invest more than $5 billion in a new fleet of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, often referred to as “flying radars.” The proposal includes acquiring approximately six aircraft equipped with advanced radar and surveillance systems.

These specialized planes would operate at altitudes exceeding 10 kilometres, allowing them to detect and track incoming missiles, enemy aircraft, and drones over vast distances. Defence officials say the elevated vantage point significantly enhances early warning capabilities and response times.

The urgency of the program has grown in recent years, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has highlighted the increasing sophistication and effectiveness of modern missile technology.