Designed and produced in Canada, the CT-142 is a modified version of the popular twin turboprop Dash-8 airliner. It was adapted for navigation training by Bombardier Inc. in the late 1980s.
Air Combat Systems Officers and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators from the Royal Canadian Air Force and from other Air Forces around the world are trained on this turboprop aircraft flown by 402 Squadron. Navigation, Tactics, Surveillance, and Search and Rescue are some of the instructed capabilities. The CT-142 employs a suite of on-board training computers, as well as a large radar system that is housed in its long nose, earning this aircraft the nickname “Gonzo”.
General characteristics
- Length: 23.63 m (77.5 ft)
- Wingspan: 25.89 m (84.9 ft)
- Height: 7.44 m (24.3 ft)
- Empty weight: 15 740 kg (34 700 lb)
- Maximum gross weight: 19 260 kg (42 461 lb)
- Powerplant: Two turbo propellers Pratt & Whitney
- Acquisition year: 1987
- RCAF fleet: 4 aeroplanes
- Bases: 17e Wing Winnipeg (Man.)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 482 km/h (260.3 kts)
- Range: 2,400 km (1,296 nmi)
- Service ceiling: 24,606 ft (7,500 m)