Canada Boosts Border Security with Blackhawk Helicopters

In response to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's threat to impose tariffs on Canadian imports over border security concerns, Canada is enhancing its border surveillance. The RCMP is deploying two leased Sikorsky HH-60L Black Hawk helicopters and 60 drones to patrol the U.S.-Canada border starting January 17, 2024. This initiative is part of a $1.3 billion budget aimed at strengthening border security, which includes acquiring new technology like X-ray machines and chemical analyzers. Public Safety Minister David McGuinty and other officials have emphasized Canada's commitment to addressing illegal crossings and drug smuggling, despite the low percentage of fentanyl entering the U.S. from Canada. The helicopters will join an existing fleet used for proactive patrols, as Canada seeks to assure the incoming U.S. administration of its security measures. These efforts coincide with recent Canadian immigration measures that have significantly reduced illegal crossings into the U.S.