The CC-130H Hercules is primarily used for search and rescue operations. While it also carries out transport missions, its main focus is saving lives through the Canadian Armed Forces’ search and rescue mandate.
It has a range of more than 7,200 kilometres and can transport approximately 80 passengers, operate on short unpaved runways and fly in severe weather conditions. These capabilities make the CC-130H an excellent aircraft for search and rescue operations over the vast span of Canada’s central and northern regions.
Canada and 13 other countries trained and were evaluated against the standard procedures of the System of Cooperation Among the American Air Forces (SICOFAA) in the use of air power in response to natural disasters and large-scale humanitarian relief.
Over the length of the two-week exercise, the Royal Canadian Air Force’s “work horse”, the CC-130 Hercules, was used to transport equipment and personnel in support of the training scenarios. Two such scenarios tested SICOFAA’s interoperability to conduct search and rescue missions quickly and effectively in a multinational context.
Deployed as a medical technician integrated into the international medical team, Corporal Jean-Sébastien Lemaire from 25 Canadian Forces Health Services Centre in Bagotville had much to say about his participation.“It was a really enriching experience as it let us see how the other countries operate. Even if the language barrier might cause difficulties sometimes, all the participants have the same objective, and this allows us to be effective despite the circumstances.”
Supporting the exercise’s international programming team, 2 Wing’s Major Christine Montoya also found the experience rewarding.“The variety of the trades and elements working together is truly impressive. For a number of countries, it’s the first time they are collaborating in such a direct manner with members from other elements, and its an experience they can bring back to their respective countries.”
