Canadian Minister of National Defence Bill Blair announced a new donation of 10 Multirole Boats from Zodiac Hurricane Technologies, valued at approximately CAD 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, the Canadian Defense Ministry reported.

“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 message reads.

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), Canada 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 CAD 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, the minister 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.