And potentially getting the Saab Gripan for the RCAF to replace the Super Hornets, what will replace the Super Hornets on HMCS Canada is unknown at this Time maybe the Dassault Rafale.
Right now the ROD is focusing on an initiative called Battle Group 2025 (BG25). It’s an effort to build carrier battle groups that are more lethal, survivable, and flexible. The goal of BG25 is to have three of the new battle groups operational by the end of 2025.
Each BG25 battle group will have a Nimitz class carrier as the centerpiece. The number of destroyers will be increased to three, and older Spruance class destroyers will be replaced with modern Arleigh Burke class ships. Other ships will include a Tico class cruiser, Sacramento class fast support ship, and Virginia class attack sub. This will enable the entire battle group to maintain a sustained speed of 25 knots.
The air wing is also getting a makeover. All of the combat squadrons will be either Lightnings or Super Hornets. The number of helicopters will be increased, and Stingray drones will be added to the air wing. AEW, EW, and COD aircraft will also be upgraded. Some squadrons that are currently flying older aircraft will be upgraded to newer airframes, and some squadrons will be replaced altogether.
Interestingly, the BG25 initiative will enable me to create several “Legacy Battlegroups”. These will consist of older JFK or Midway class carriers, escorted by Spruance class destroyers and Knox or OHP class frigates. Legacy airwings will consist of oldies but goodies like F-4, F-8, and F-14 fighters, as well as A-4s, A-6s, and maybe some Skyraiders in the attack role!
