SASKATCHEWAN — Black Hawk helicopters will continue to patrol the Canada-U.S. border and remain a key component of border security operations, according to a statement the RCMP provided to SaskToday.
Jessica Kingsbury, director of media relations for national communications and public affairs with the RCMP, said the helicopters are deployed daily based on operational requirements and are used to patrol, detect and respond to threats moving in either direction across the border.
The aircraft help deter illegal crossings involving people, drugs and other contraband while providing rapid-response capabilities that enhance the RCMP's ability to monitor areas between ports of entry, Kingsbury said. She added the helicopters are part of the force's broader, layered approach to border security.
The RCMP began using two chartered Black Hawk helicopters for border operations on Jan. 17, 2025, according to Kingsbury. A third aircraft became operational in April 2025.
She said the RCMP awarded three contracts to Helicopter Transport Services (Canada) through Public Services and Procurement Canada's National Master Standing Offer for Air Chartering Services for the period from June 1 to Nov. 30, 2026.
Kingsbury said the RCMP is currently operating two of the three helicopters. The third aircraft was voluntarily grounded after Transport Canada raised concerns about potential regulatory issues. Discussions between the RCMP and Transport Canada are ongoing, she said.
According to Kingsbury, the helicopters operate alongside the RCMP's existing fleet of nine aircraft. They are used to detect and track illegal activity, transport police personnel and rapidly deploy or direct enforcement resources.
She said the aircraft also work with Integrated Border Enforcement Teams and other law enforcement partners, providing intelligence and rapid-response support. When suspicious activity is detected, ground-based officers may be directed to investigate.
Depending on the circumstances, individuals may be stopped, questioned, arrested or otherwise dealt with under Canadian law, Kingsbury said. She added that helicopters may also land to allow officers on board to conduct investigative activities.
The federal government announced a $1.3-billion border security investment in early 2025. The funding is being used to acquire equipment such as Black Hawk helicopters, drones and mobile surveillance towers, hire additional personnel and establish new canine teams.
The border security enhancement plan was introduced after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on Canadian goods unless border security measures were strengthened.
