Canada Send More Than 800 SkyRanger Drones to Ukraine

Defense News ,Canada ,Ukraine :- In a significant move to bolster Ukraine's defense against Russia, the Canadian government is set to send over 800 SkyRanger R70 multi-mission drones. Valued at 95 million Canadian dollars ($70.3 million), these unmanned aerial systems, provided by Teledyne FLIR, are equipped with advanced features to enhance the Ukrainian armed forces' capabilities.

The SkyRanger R70 drones come with a navigation system, camera, and an optional payload of up to 3.5 kilograms (7.7 pounds), including munitions. This technology will empower Ukrainian forces to detect and identify individuals, vehicles, and heat sources from long distances, even in extreme weather and low-light conditions.

While the details of R70 training and delivery are still under negotiation between Canadian and Ukrainian defense agencies, the shipment is anticipated to commence in the spring. Bardish Chagger, the Member of Parliament for Waterloo, expressed satisfaction that Teledyne, a company founded in Waterloo, is contributing technologies crucial for aiding Ukraine.

The decision to provide military aid comes in the wake of the 19th Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, a 54-nation alliance formed in response to Russia's aggression in February 2022. Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair announced a commitment of 60 million Canadian dollars ($44.4 million) in military aid during the meeting. This aid aims to sustain weapons stations, avionics, spare parts, and ammunition for Ukraine's F-16 Fighting Falcon supersonic aircraft.

"As we approach the second anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion, Canada stands firmly with Ukraine in defense of freedom and democracy," stated Minister Blair regarding the R70 drone donation. "In coordination with our allies and partners, we will continue to provide Ukraine with the military aid that it needs to fight and win this war. Today’s announcement ensures that Ukraine has the drones it needs to detect and identify targets which are critical to Ukraine’s ongoing fight. Canada will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes."

Canada's unwavering support for Kyiv is evident in its commitment of over 9.7 billion Canadian dollars ($7.2 billion) since the war began. Out of this, approximately 2.4 billion Canadian dollars ($1.8 billion) were dedicated to direct military aid. This substantial assistance underscores Canada's dedication to standing with Ukrainians against the backdrop of Putin's illegal war.