Airbus Defense and Space is partnering with Canada's Provincial Aerospace to bid on a contract to build fixed-wing search-and-rescue aircraft.

The pairing, which will strengthen Airbus' position in seeking the Canadian government contract, comes under a memorandum of understanding announced this week.

"Provincial Aerospace's proven in-service support capabilities and world-class expertise as an integrator of advanced technology systems make it a very strong addition to our C295 team," said Antonio R. Barberan, head of Airbus Defense and space's Commercial for Military Aircraft business sector. "The C295 is the world leader in military search and rescue, maritime patrol and medium transport with over 130 aircraft sold in 19 countries.

"Together with our Canadian partners, we are offering a proven, reliable and low-risk solution to Canada's fixed-wing SAR needs."

Under the arrangement, Provincial Aerospace will provide in-service support for the aircraft, which would replace Canada's CC-115 Buffalo and CC-130 aircraft.

"We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Airbus Defense and Space on such an important project for Canada," Keith Stoodley, Provincial's senior vice president, Business Development and Government Relations, said. "Like Airbus Defense and Space, we are a solutions-based organization, so we are excited to partner to propose a SAR aircraft and mission system combination that is already in operation in several countries."