Canada sending more equipment to Ukraine as full-scale war with Russia nears 2-year mark

Canada is contributing another $35 million worth of military equipment to Ukraine as the embattled Eastern European country's allies meet to discuss its future needs, and as Russia's full invasion edges toward the two-year mark.

Defence Minister Bill Blair, who participated in the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting via video link, said Canada is providing 10 Multirole Boats from Zodiac Hurricane Technologies, valued at approximately $20 million.

The rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) are a favourite of Canadian Special Forces for commando operations. The Department of National Defence (DND) says they also can be used for search and rescue, troop and cargo transport, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Each boat has a sophisticated sensor, navigation and communications system, the department said in a media statement. The cost includes commercial training for the Ukrainian operators, as well as spares.

Blair also announced that Canada will pay for civilian instructors from Montreal-based Top Aces Inc. to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s being donated by Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands.

Canada does not operate the U.S.-manufactured F-16 but they are used by Top Aces, a private company that offers a wide range of fighter jet instruction. Blair said the use of Top Aces' aircraft for training is included in the $15-million training package.

The first Canadian-sponsored classes begin next month and will last for a year.

Canada is also donating English language training to Ukrainian Air Force personnel at the Canadian Forces Language School.

It's not known at this time what other members of the UDCG are donating.

For the first time since U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin established the international group to support