Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, participated virtually in the 18th Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting, hosted by United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III. The meeting brought together representatives from more than 50 countries, who reaffirmed their commitment to providing Ukraine with the critical military support it needs.
At the meeting, Minister Blair announced a new donation of 10 Multirole Boats from Zodiac Hurricane Technologies, valued at approximately $20 million. These multi-engine Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) will assist Ukraine in various maritime operations including search and rescue, troop and cargo transport, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Each boat will come with a sophisticated sensor, navigation, and communications system. This donation includes the provision of commercially contracted training for Ukrainian operators, as well as trailers and spare parts. The delivery of these boats with training is expected to be completed by late-spring 2024.
The Minister further announced that starting next month, in support of Canada's membership in the F-16 Training Coalition for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), we will provide civilian instructors, planes, and support staff contracted from Montreal-based Top Aces Inc. to contribute to Denmark and France's training efforts. This support is valued at approximately $15 million. Training will begin in February 2024 and will continue into 2025.
Canada is also providing English language training to Ukrainian Air Force personnel at the Canadian Forces Language School. This work will be an important contribution to the mission to equip and enable the AFU with F-16 fighter jets.
Minister Blair also announced Canada's participation in two capability coalitions that will report to the Ukraine Defense Contact Group - namely, the armour coalition, and the air force coalition.
Finally, Minister Blair noted that more shipments of previously announced donations arrived for the AFU, including NATO-standard small arms and ammunition, as well as winter clothing and gear. There will be more shipments of these items in the coming weeks.
The donations announced today demonstrate Canada's ongoing commitments and contributions to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia's illegal and unjustifiable war.
