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The first upgraded Phase II CF-18 Hornet was delivered to the Canadian customer on Monday.

Boeing and industry partner L-3 Communications MAS on Monday delivered the first modernized Phase II CF-18 fighter to the Canadian Department of Defense.

Phase II of the CF-18 modernization program adds a data link system, a helmet-mounted sight system, new color cockpit displays and a new chaff-and-flare-dispensing electronic warfare system to 79 CF-18 Hornets. The program is expected to be completed in March 2010. Phase I, completed in August 2006, upgraded the Canadian Hornet fleet’s avionics, radio and weapons capabilities.

The new data link will increase interoperability between Canadian and allied forces. The Canadian fighters also will have improved survivability with the upgraded chaff-and-flare-dispensing system, increased weapons effectiveness with the helmet-mounted sight system and enhanced situational awareness with the upgraded displays. Phase II of the modernization project is valued at US$150 million.

"This modernization program is essential to keeping Canadian forces interoperable with American and allied nations today and in the future," said Paul Niewald, Boeing CF-18 program manager. "The increased capabilities of the CF-18s will keep the fleet an integral part of Canadian defenses for years to come."

Boeing previously completed two prototype aircraft, while L-3 provided installation services for the program’s remaining 77 aircraft. The Phase II work is done at the L-3 facility in Mirabel (Montreal), Quebec.

Boeing has been a major contributor and vital partner to the Canadian economy for nearly 90 years, consistently placing substantial amounts of work generated by its Canadian facilities in Winnipeg, Richmond and Montreal. As a result, Canada is Boeing’s third-largest supplier network worldwide. Canada was the first international Hornet customer more than 20 years ago.