OTTAWA — Defence Minister Bill Blair announced an $11-billion deal to train Air Force pilots at a defence trade show in Ottawa this morning.

The federal government has also signed a $2.5-billion deal to buy logistics vehicles for the army.

The 25-year flight training deal includes classroom training, simulations and the purchase of 70 training aircraft.

Blair was speaking to defence industry representatives at CANSEC, a two-day conference put on by the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries.

This year’s event also attracted anti-war protesters, many of whom waved Palestinian flags and shouted at attendees that they’re supporting genocide.

Ottawa police are restricting traffic in the area and monitoring the protests.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 29, 2024.

The Canadian Press