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Canada and Portugal signed a $39 million contract on March 9, 2026, for the modernization of five P-3C Orion aircraft operated by the Portuguese Air Force. The upgrades, executed by General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada, will enhance communications systems and mission electronics, sustaining up to 50 jobs in Canada.

This contract follows a modernization program started in 2022, with the first aircraft entering modification in October 2023. The P-3C, used for maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare, has been continuously updated to extend its operational life and maintain Portugal's patrol capabilities across NATO operations.