Boeing Invests $1.4 Million to Boost Flight Simulator Production

Boeing Canada has committed $1.4 million to enhance the production capabilities of Bluedrop Training and Simulation in Halifax. This investment is part of a larger agreement involving the federal government, which is purchasing over a dozen Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the Canadian Armed Forces.

The announcement was made on October 23, 2023, with Boeing’s President, Al Meinzinger, emphasizing the company’s longstanding partnership in Canada. “With over a century of partnership in Canada, we are dedicated to providing innovative training solutions, supporting local industry and strengthening communities,” he stated. The funds will aid Bluedrop in ramping up its production of flight simulators, an essential component of military training.

Bluedrop Training Simulation, headquartered in Newfoundland, has a significant operational presence in Halifax. Among its projects is the development of the CV-22 Osprey Special Mission Aviator Ramp Trainer, which offers comprehensive simulation training for crews operating the aircraft. This collaboration is not new; Bluedrop has previously provided training and simulation support for Boeing’s C-17 Globemaster and the CH-47F Chinook.

Derrick Rowe, CEO of Bluedrop Training and Simulation, highlighted the importance of Boeing’s support in fostering innovation and growth within the company. “Boeing has been a strong supporter of Bluedrop, playing a pivotal role in fostering the company’s innovation and growth,” Rowe noted. He pointed out that this partnership has significantly contributed to the development of a Canadian small-to-medium enterprise, enhancing Bluedrop’s capabilities and workforce.

The investment announcement was attended by Tim Houston, Premier of Nova Scotia, who recognized the strategic importance of such investments in military training technology. “Nova Scotia is a proven destination for defence and aerospace-related investment. We are home to globally recognized training and simulation expertise, such as Bluedrop,” Houston remarked.

Bluedrop currently employs over 180 people in Atlantic Canada and provides support to numerous aerospace clients and defense organizations worldwide. The investment from Boeing is expected to further strengthen Bluedrop’s role in the industry, contributing to both local employment and technological advancements in military training.

As the aerospace sector continues to evolve, partnerships like this one between Boeing and Bluedrop highlight the importance of collaboration in fostering innovation and meeting the training needs of modern armed forces.