The Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft will join the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), enabling Canadian innovation partners to demonstrate cutting-edge technologies to support the Department of National Defence’s needs across a broad range of applications.
Bombardier has extensively adapted the Global 6500 platform to support complex scientific, governmental, and special-mission requirements. Its proven ability to integrate evolving technologies throughout its service life makes it particularly well suited to support the NRC’s critical innovation priorities and to reinforce Canada’s broader research and defence capabilities.
The Government of Canada spotlighted the Global 6500 aircraft acquisition during an event held at the NRC’s hangar in Ottawa. Attendees included the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State for Defence Procurement and Mitch Davies, President of the National Research Council of Canada.
An announcement to highlight the National Research Council of Canada’s defence initiatives, including the purchase of this aircraft, took place on March 9th in Ottawa. The Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft, with its history of successful special-mission modification and its proven reliability and endurance, is an ideal platform for research and development activities. Assembled in the Greater Toronto Area, the Global 6500 aircraft will support the development of defence-related technologies within Canada.
The NRC’s acquisition of a Global 6500 aircraft strengthens Canada’s continued confidence in this platform, complementing the Government of Canada’s order of 6 Global 6500 aircraft announced in December 2025 to support global utility flights and critical missions such as aeromedical evacuations, disaster relief, humanitarian assistance and national security operations.
The Global 6500 aircraft offers a mission-configurable cabin with ample space, long-range performance, and a robust electrical and structural architecture that allows for the seamless installation and integration of evolving technologies, including advanced research equipment, sensors, and mission systems. These capabilities will provide the NRC with a versatile and enduring platform to support research initiatives in service of Canada’s defence and national interests. Bombardier business jets are ideal for defence missions including Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), multi-role, head of state transport, medevac, urgent humanitarian assistance and more. Bombardier is known for its flexible, collaborative approach, building long-term relationships with governments and militaries, and partnering with the world’s most advanced mission system providers to deliver proven, reliable, and advanced defence solutions.
