427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron

427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron, (427 SOAS) located at CFB Petawawa, Ontario, has the principal role of supporting Canadian Special Operations Force Command units. The Squadron is equipped with CH-146 Griffon helicopters.

Special operations aviation support routinely involves an intense and demanding operating environment. Squadron personnel are highly skilled in performing the special operations aviation role, whether in support of domestic operations, or supporting Canadian special operations forces in missions abroad.

In addition to its support to special operations, the squadron can provide support to other Canadian Forces and Army operations through tactical airlift of troops and equipment, casualty evacuation and logistical support. The Squadron also supports search and rescue operations in central Canada.

Prior to its transfer to CANSOFCOM, the squadron was know as 427 Tactical Helicopter Sqn. It was a part of Air Command and provided tactical aviation to 2 CMBG.