Structure of the Royal Canadian Air Force


The Royal Canadian Air Force structure is organized into Wings, Squadrons, and Divisions, each responsible for different operational, training, or support functions. It is commanded by the Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force, who reports to the Chief of the Defence Staff. Major divisions include 1 Canadian Air Division, 2 Canadian Air Division, and 3 Canadian Space Division.

Royal Canadian Air Force Headquarters

The operational headquarters of the Royal Canadian Air Force resides in Winnipeg, Manitoba, home of 1 Canadian Air Division, the Canadian NORAD Region, Joint Force Air Component and Search and Rescue Region Trenton. This headquarters is the source of air power provided by the RCAF to Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command for domestic and overseas missions, Commander Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, Commander of NORAD through CANR, and commanders of the Search and Rescue Regions across Canada.
2 Canadian Air Division is a key formation of the Royal Canadian Air Force that is responsible for overseeing all individual training and education within the Air Force. Headquartered in 17 Winnipeg, 2 CAD ensures that RCAF personnel, whether pilots, aircrew, technicians, or support staff receive the necessary training to meet operational and professional requirements.
3 Canadian Space Division is responsible for delivering space power effects in support of Canadian Armed Forces operations.
The Royal Canadian Air Force Aerospace Warfare Centre is the centre of excellence for leading modern advances to techniques, technology, innovation and concepts for the Royal Canadian Air Force, while also acting as its steward for history and heritage.
  • Royal Canadian Air Force Aerospace Warfare Centre
  • * 414 Electronic Warfare Support Squadron
  • * 434 Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron
  • ** Maritime Helicopter Test and Evaluation Flight, CH-148 Cyclone
  • ** Long Range Patrol Operational Test and Evaluation Flight, CP-140 Aurora
  • ** Land Aviation Test and Evaluation Flight, CH-47 Chinook, CH-146 Griffon
  • ** Fighter Operational Test and Evaluation Flight, CF-188 Hornet
  • ** Search and Rescue Test and Evaluation Flight, CH-149 Cormorant, CC-130 Hercules, CH-146 Griffon
  • ** Special Operations Aviation Test and Evaluation Flight
  • ** Aerospace Test and Evaluation Flight
  • ** Transport Operational Test and Evaluation Flight
  • * Air and Space Power Development Centre
  • * Air and Space Integration Programme