Canada has announced a three-year delay in the delivery of its General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper armed drones, a program valued at $3.6 billion. Initially scheduled for 2025, the first deliveries will now take place in 2028, as additional modifications are required to ensure the aircraft can operate effectively under the harsh Arctic climate conditions. This decision also affects the Royal Canadian Air Force’s operational timeline for deploying the fleet.

According to Andrée-Anne Poulin, spokesperson for the Canadian Department of National Defence, the extension is necessary to adapt the MQ-9s to the unique requirements of Arctic operations. Poulin emphasized that the new systems being added are critical for missions in the region, enhancing the UAVs’ performance and survivability in extreme environments. Notably, the Canadian-made WESCAM MX-20 EO/IR electro-optical sensor will be integrated into the platform as part of these upgrades.

The program also involves the UAVs securing airworthiness certification, a crucial step before they enter service. Despite the delay, the Canadian government intends to sign the procurement contract in the near future.

Defense analysts highlight that this investment will significantly enhance Canada’s operational capacity in the Arctic, strengthening both national security and the country’s ability to operate alongside NATO allies. The move underscores Canada’s commitment to building a more capable and climate-resilient drone fleet for one of the most challenging environments on Earth.