In this episode I am on the flight line at Canadian Forces Base Comox where I speak with Lieutenant-Colonel Claude Rivard, the Commanding Officer of 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron which is based at 19 Wing, Canadian Forces Base Comox on Canada’s west coast.
In this exclusive interview, LCol Rivard provides insight into the critical mandate of 442 Squadron — one of Canada’s premier Search and Rescue (SAR) units responsible for saving lives across some of the most challenging and diverse terrain in Canada.
From the rugged Pacific coastline to the demanding high-altitude environments of British Columbia’s mountains, 442 Squadron operates at the sharp end of SAR operations, ready to respond at a moment’s notice.
Our chat covers the yet-to-be-delivered upgraded CH-149 Cormorant helicopter; and the introduction of the CC-295 Kingfisher, Canada’s new fixed-wing search and rescue aircraft which is now integrated into 442 Squadron’s daily operations. LCol Rivard discusses how the Kingfisher is enhancing mission effectiveness, improving response capabilities, and shaping the future of SAR in Canada.
In addition, we discuss the 2025 National Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), which is again hosted by 442 Squadron and 19 Wing Comox.
Widely regarded as the most optimum SAR training areas in the country, the Comox region offers unparalleled geographic diversity spanning from open ocean, dense coastal terrain and high mountain elevations, which makes it an ideal location to exercise and refine SAR capabilities.
LCol Rivard also speaks about the importance of the international partner nations at SAREX 2025 who train for interoperability, and who observe and share insight to tactics, techniques and procedures.
My thanks to LCol Rivard for sharing his insight on 442 Squadron and SAR in Canada.
GO BOLD!
