Exercise VIGILANT EAGLE(File Photo) NORAD operations in North Bay had an active role in an airspace defence training session last week, involving two B-52 Stratofortress bombers. 

CF-18 fighter jets were scrambled from Quebec and Alberta. 

The Canadian Air Defence Sector (CADS) from 22 Wing in North Bay conducted identification and aerospace control for the Canadian jets while they were conducting intercept training. 

CADS also ensured the safe passage of the American B-52’s through Canadian airspace once the training was complete.

In a release, Major-General David Wheeler, Commander Canadian NORAD Region says, “The opportunity for the Canadian NORAD Region to work with assets from US Strategic Command provided our personnel with invaluable and realistic training benefits. This training exemplifies the close relationship with our American partners towards our common goal to defend North America’s airspace.”

(File photo: A CF-18 Hornet from 409 Tactical Fighter Squadron in Cold Lake, Alberta flies in the Alaskan airspace in preparation for Exercise VIGILANT EAGLE 13 on August 25, 2013.  Photo: Cpl Vicky Lefrancois, DAirPA)