UK communications specialist Smith Myers announced on 28 May 2024 that its Artemis mobile phone detection location system has been selected to be a component of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s Cormorant search-and-rescue (SAR) helicopter Mid-Life Upgrade (CMLU) programme.
The CMLU programme aims to transition Canada’s AW101/CH-149 Cormorant SAR helicopter fleet to the latest standard, aligning with the SAR capabilities of Norway, which also selected Smith Myers’ Artemis system.
The Canadian Department of National Defence has awarded a CAD 1 billion CAN (EUR 690 million) contract to Leonardo for the CMLU programme, covering 16 aircraft, including the augmentation of three additional Cormorant helicopters. This investment will not only enhance the fleet’s systems and technologies but also ensure compliance with emerging airspace requirements, extending the helicopters’ service life to 2042 and beyond.
Smith Myers’ Artemis mobile phone detection location system is a critical addition to the CMLU, contributing to the overall effectiveness of search and rescue operations. The technology enables precise mobile phone detection, enhancing location accuracy and reducing search times through more efficient and focused rescue efforts.
“Being selected to be part of this important mid-life search-and-rescue upgrade and as the mobile phone detection, communication and location system of choice for the Royal Canadian Air Force across fixed- and rotary-wing platforms is a great honour,” Andrew Munro, Smith Myers’ managing director, was quoted as saying in a company press release.
“We are excited to be part of this transformative project and to contributing to the advancement of search-and rescue-capabilities for the Royal Canadian Air Force. Artemis stands as a testament to Smith Myers’ commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that make a positive impact in critical operations,” he added.
Gian Piero Cutillo, managing director of Leonardo Helicopters, emphasised the impact of the CMLU programme on providing the Royal Canadian Air Force with an advanced, all-weather SAR capability.
“The AW101/CH-149 Cormorant search-and-rescue helicopter fleet will provide the Royal Canadian Air Force with the sustainment of a robust, high-tech, all-weather SAR capability across Canada,” he said. “The CMLU programme through Team Cormorant will reduce the cost of fleet ownership, while further increasing reliability, capability and safety for Canadian people.”
The collaboration under Team Cormorant includes Leonardo, IMP Aerospace and Defence, GE Canada and Collins Aerospace Canada as well as Smith Myers.
The Artemis system has been in active service worldwide since 2017. The growing global customer base includes multiple programmes in the UK, Europe, North America, South America, Southeast Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
