The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has officially marked the transitioning of the Air Task Force-Iraq mission during a parade in Kuwait. Lieutenant-General Michael Hood, Commander Royal Canadian Air Force, presided over the parade, which commemorated the contributions of all CAF members who have deployed to conduct and support air operations since the beginning of Operation IMPACT.

“Canadians can be proud of the members of the Operation IMPACT Fighter Detachment, who through their professionalism and dedication, assured that the fighter contribution to the mission was expertly delivered," LGen Hood said. "Our personnel have delivered first-rate fighter operations on behalf of Canada in flying and leading complex missions, and by maintaining and supporting our fighters in action. As this mission completes its transition, I am confident that the men and women of Air Task Force Iraq will continue to expertly deliver airpower to this operation, affording them the reach and agility it requires.”   

Air Task Force-Iraq will continue to operate two types of aircraft in support of coalition air operations. The CC-150T Polaris supports coalition air assets in the region with aerial refueling and two CP-140 Auroras conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions based on identified and pre-determined areas of interest.   

“I am immensely proud of all the men and women who have deployed to conduct and support airstrike operations as part of Air Task Force-Iraq," said Colonel Shayne Elder, Commander, Air Task Force-Iraq. "I thank all those who have made contributions to this important mission and appreciate greatly the ongoing commitment of those who continue to work with our partners to improve the security of Iraq and the region.”   

As directed by the Government of Canada, the CF-18 Hornets ceased airstrike operations on February 15, 2016, and will depart the region in a phased approach in the coming weeks.