On Monday, July 7, 2025, the Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, participated in a groundbreaking ceremony at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton to mark the start of construction on a major infrastructure project that will support the Strategic Tanker Transport Capability (STTC) project.
Through an investment of $850 million, the Department of National Defence (DND) is moving forward with significant upgrades and additional infrastructure for the Main Operating Base (MOB) – East at CFB Trenton. These critical infrastructure upgrades will support the arrival and long-term operation of up to seven CC-330 Husky aircraft at CFB Trenton, while a second MOB under development in Edmonton will be able to support up to three and the creation of up to 1,000 jobs in the Trenton and Belleville area.
This first phase of construction, expected to continue into 2026, includes resurfacing the existing runway, aprons and taxiways. Preparations are also underway for the construction of a new two-bay hangar, training facility, fuel depot, and ramp extension. All required construction for the project, including fuelling and defuelling infrastructure, training facilities, and cargo and passenger processing infrastructure is anticipated to be completed by 2033.
Quotes
“Equipping the Canadian Armed Forces to meet the complex challenges of today and tomorrow is a top priority for our government. This project delivers on that commitment—by strengthening our operational capabilities and supporting economic growth and good jobs here in the region. It’s a clear example of how smart defence investments benefit both national security and local communities.”
The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
“Today marks an exciting milestone in the modernization of our air mobility capabilities. The infrastructure upgrades and new construction taking place here at Canadian Forces Base Trenton will ensure our personnel have the facilities and resources they need to operate the CC-330 Husky safely and effectively for decades to come. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. I want to express our sincere thanks to the Quinte West community for their continued support and understanding as we carry out this important work.”
Colonel Andy Bowser, Commander 8 Wing/CFB Trenton
Quick Facts
On March 8, 2024, the Honourable Bill Blair, former Minister of National Defence, announced $850 million in upgrades to CFB Trenton, home of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) air mobility operations in Canada. These upgrades will enable CFB Trenton to serve as the Eastern Main Operating Base for the new CC-330 Husky fleet.
The STTC platform will replace the existing CC-150 Polaris fleet capability, including Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR), strategic airlift, aeromedical evacuations, and strategic Government of Canada transport. The STTC platform will provide AAR for both domestic and expeditionary operations, while complementing the strategic airlift capabilities of the RCAF Air Mobility fleet.
The STTC project is acquiring nine CC-330 Husky (four new and five used aircraft) to replace the CC-150 Polaris. The contract with Airbus is valued at approximately $3.6 billion (excluding taxes). The acquisition consists of the nine aircraft, their associated equipment, training capability, integrated logistic support and sustainment.
This investment is part of Canada’s $38.6 billion North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) modernization plan, which was announced by the Government of Canada in June 2022 and represents the most significant upgrade to Canada’s NORAD capabilities in almost four decades.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
