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Canadian participation affirms the transatlantic bond

After a three-year break, a guest from across the Atlantic is set to return to the jubilee 25th NATO Days in Ostrava & 16th Czech Air Force Days. The Royal Canadian Air Force will enrich the static displays with the legendary CF-188 Hornet and, for the first time, the CC-130J Hercules transport aircraft.

Given the distance, the presentation of Canadian aircraft at European air shows is an exceptional event. Canada first appeared at NATO Days in 2017 and has since remained one of the most distant participants. This year will mark its fifth appearance at Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava, with a pair of aircraft symbolizing both combat readiness and the logistical capabilities of the Canadian Air Force.

“Canadian participation is a powerful symbol of allied solidarity across the ocean, and its repeated presence reaffirms the transatlantic bonds that form the foundation of the North Atlantic Alliance,” said Zbyněk Pavlačík, Chairman of Jagello 2000. “I am especially pleased that we will see the Canadian version of the C-130 Hercules for the very first time. Its participation has been facilitated by deployments in Scotland and its involvement in support for Ukraine.”

The “J” variant is the latest version of this proven transport aircraft in Royal Canadian Air Force service. Since it can operate from short and unpaved runways, it is designed to take on a wide range of missions - from transporting troops and equipment, to airborne deployment, resupply in difficult conditions, and even search and rescue operations. The aircraft can deliver up to 92 fully equipped soldiers or 128 passengers directly into operational areas, making it a key logistical asset of the armed forces.

The F/A-18 Hornet was originally developed as a multirole aircraft for U.S. Navy aircraft carriers. However, thanks to its versatility, it was also adopted by several air forces around the world for land-based operations - though even export versions retain carrier landing systems. This is the case with the CF-188s, despite the last Canadian aircraft carrier having been retired back in 1970. These machines have been deployed in combat operations, including interventions in Libya and the fight against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, as well as in non-combat missions such as Baltic and Romanian air policing. A unique feature of the Canadian variant is its painted “false cockpit” on the underside of the fuselage, designed to confuse opponents during aerial engagements.

See you at
the NATO Days in Ostrava
& Czech Air Force Days!