GA-ASI may sell Canada MQ-1/9 as UAV Buy Restarts with 2019 goal

The Predator B–seen here in maritime surveillance configuration–
is a contender for Canada’s Joint Unmanned Surveillance and
Target Acquisition System (Justas) requirement.
(Photo: GA-ASI)

Canada Restarts Attempt to Buy Drones
the US-built Predator could have the inside track on the project worth about CAN $1.5 billion (US $1.4 billion), according to industry sources.
Royal Canadian Air Force Brig. Gen. Phil Garbutt told industry representatives in Ottawa April 9 that the plan is to have the first aircraft available for operations in 2021. He described the project, called the Joint Unmanned Surveillance Targeting and Acquisition System (JUSTAS), as providing an all-weather, persistent capability that can support Canadian military operations.
Air Force Col. Ian Lightbody, director of air requirements, noted that a contract is expected to be awarded in 2019. All aircraft would be delivered by 2023, he added.

Canada’s UAV Requirement Prompts New Move by GA-ASI | Defense: Aviation International News
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) announced a partnership with Canadian software house OMX, in connection with that country’s joint unmanned surveillance and target acquisition system (Justas) requirement. GA-ASI is already teamed with simulation specialist CAE to offer the Predator B and/or Predator C Avenger to Canada.
GA-ASI noted that over the past year, OMX has developed the largest amalgamated structured database in the Canadian defense, aerospace and security industry, with nearly 50,000 companies indexed. “Canadian companies interested in becoming suppliers to GA-ASI are encouraged to claim their complimentary company profiles on http://www.theomx.com and update their information, including Canadian content value (CCV) percentages per product,” the American company added.