Top Aces, the world’s leading provider of advanced adversary air (ADAIR) and joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) training to allied forces, today announced the extension and amendment of its pre-existing CATS agreement with Canada through October 2029. Operating a fleet of upgraded Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets and Bombardier Learjet 35s, Top Aces has been a trusted training partner of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) since 2005. With this contract extension/amendment, Top Aces’ A-4 Skyhawk ‘Advanced Aggressor Fighter’ (AAF) will join the company’s Canadian fleet early next year. Deployment of this aircraft will add advanced radar and tactical datalink to the CATS offering. The AAF configuration better replicates current adversary fighter aircraft and will enhance the training of RCAF CF-18 pilots, particularly as phase II of the CF-18 Hornet extension project (HEP) is underway.
“Top Aces continues to modernize and enhance our services to meet the evolving needs of the RCAF. The addition of AAMS is very significant because it integrates sensors and functions that replicate advanced adversary fighter aircraft. This latest enhancement will be particularly beneficial to the RCAF as it transitions to the HEP2 CF-18 and subsequently the F-35.Canada’s visionary approach to CATS has been adopted by air forces worldwide, including the U.S. Air Force and other allies in Europe. Today, Top Aces is very proud to extend its long-standing partnership with Canada. We will deliver advanced training services that enhance combat readiness and offer numerous cost-efficiencies in support of CAF operations,” says Paul Bouchard, Founder and CEO, Top Aces.
Furthermore, the addition of the A-4 AAF to Top Aces’ training fleet will allow the RCAF to reduce the use of CF-18s in adversary roles and help mitigate the anticipated human resources challenges associated with the transition to the F-35. Two Top Aces’ A-4 AAFs will begin training with the RCAF next spring, expanding to four aircraft by 2025. These aircraft will be equipped with Top Aces’ proprietary open architecture ‘Advanced Aggressor Mission System’ (AAMS), which enables the integration of advanced capabilities, including tactical datalink, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and numerous other potential upgrades. The single and dual-seat Skyhawks have been upgraded by Top Aces and have modernized IFR, Tactical Air Navigation System, and ESCAPAC ejection seats for maximum operational flexibility and aircrew safety.
Top Aces Inc. is a Montreal, Quebec-based defence contractor that offers contracted airborne training services to the Canadian Armed Forces through the Contracted Airborne Training Services (CATS) program. It provides electronic warfare training and tactics development, and supports advanced radar trials in nationally controlled environments. All Electronic Warfare Officers and EW role equipment are provided by 414 Electronic Warfare Squadron, Royal Canadian Air Force as part of the CATS contract. Top Aces operates a fleet of modernized fighter aircraft to provide Red Air threat replication, Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) training, practice munitions drop, air-to-air gunnery training and naval target tow profiles for the Canadian and German militaries. Canadian Armed Forces personnel are authorized to fly on board Top Aces fighter aircraft.
