Today, 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron assumed command of the Operation IMPACT Tactical Aviation Detachment in Northern Iraq as the Canadian Armed Forces continues its commitment to the fight against Daesh.
430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron relieved 427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron, which had been providing tactical aviation support since May. The Tactical Aviation Detachment of Air Task Force-Iraq comprises approximately 60 personnel who fly and maintain three CH-146 Griffon helicopters. A fourth helicopter is expected to be in theatre in the coming weeks.
The CH-146 Griffon helicopters provide in-theatre tactical transport to Canadian troops and material near Erbil. The aircraft carry an array of self-defence systems and weapons as a matter of force protection.
"The Canadian Armed Forces continues to provide important contributions to the fight to dismantle Daesh. The Tactical Aviation Detachment will provide air mobility capability in northern Iraq as the Iraqi security forces, backed by the Coalition, reclaim their country from Daesh. Our personnel are our strength and they will continue to enhance our reputation for excellence in operations.” Brigadier-General Shane Brennan, Commander Joint Task Force-Iraq
“The men and women of 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron will continue and build on the contributions their Special Operations Forces comrades have provided to the Iraqi security forces to date. I am confident that their skill, professionalism, and dedication will make a positive difference in the fight against Daesh." Colonel Jason Major, Commander Air Task Force-Iraq
“With the deployment of people and helicopters from 430 Squadron, the Royal Canadian Air Force continues to bring effective and reliable tactical aviation capability to support CAF operations. I am extremely proud of our deploying men and women, and I have no doubt that their work will further the Canadian Armed Forces’ reputation for excellence in operations.” Lieutenant-Colonel Carol Potvin, Commanding Officer 430 Squadron
430 Squadron based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, Quebec, is replacing three CH-146 Griffon helicopters and personnel previously deployed in May 2016 as part of the continued expansion of Op IMPACT.
As part of Joint Task Force-Iraq, ATF-I contributes to coalition air operations against Daesh to improve security in Iraq and in the region.
Canada remains a committed partner to the global Coalition against Daesh. Op IMPACT will total approximately 830 military personnel once all new capabilities are in place.
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